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Mayor Masina said that all three spheres of government have come together in one way or another to ensure that the Kempton Village Social Housing Project is successful . “ We are creating a new community through this particular project .” He reported that over the past ten years , the City of Ekurhuleni has been unveiling tens of thousands of housing units of different kinds , all centred around affordability . “ The launch of this Kempton Village project is aligned with our own vision , and the pursuit of spatial justice . Further , the multiplier effect created by this project will help unlock the economic , social and cultural potential of Ekurhuleni , which is emerging as a major economic nerve centre . But more than this , this project will change lives . Let this be your home ,” he concluded .
SHRA Chairperson Bathabile Dlamini addressed attendees , stating that SHRA has a mandate to provide affordable rental accommodation . “ Yes , every role player here today has been vital in ensuring the provision of this complex , but let us not forget the most important stakeholders here – the residents . It is these people to whom we are responsible , to ensure they stay closer to work , have more time with their children , and be protected from violence . Our foremost interest is that this place must be safe for women ,” she said , citing the prevalence of gender-based violence in South Africa .
The entrance wing of the complex .
The handover event also included an inspection of the units led by Yusuf Gani of YG Property Investments , and an address by National Empowerment Fund CEO Philisiwe Mthethwa . She stated : “ It is an honour to have partnered with different stakeholders for this project , and this is not the first project we have worked on with SHRA . We like this project for its contribution to employment and its social aspect . Our quest is to grow the economy brick by brick .”
The development created 565 jobs during construction and was funded jointly by SHRA , the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements , the Geotech Variation Grant , the National Empowerment Fund and YG Property Investments . Residents have moved in and comprise largely of youth and young families , which this complex was designed for , featuring jungle gyms , braai areas and a community centre . Additionally , the complex boasts advanced technology features such as biometric access control , full CCTV coverage and fibre to the home .
Farrow Laing were the Quantity Surveyors and managed the project . FICSM were the Health and Safety Managers . Thermowise were the Plumbers . PA
“ Housing ought not to be a privilege , but a basic right .” Plumbing service duct on each floor .
January 2021 Volume 26 I Number 11 www . plumbingafrica . co . za