SA Affordable Housing May / June 2021 | Page 17

PROJECT
Bathroom with shower .
by realising the right of access to shelter that is both affordable and restorative of the dignity of our people . In this way , our contribution to urban improvement integrates both the poor and the ‘ gap group ’ families into viable communities with access to social and economic services beyond mere survival on a firm track towards the actualisation of their hopes and dreams .
A second element that the GPF is extremely intentional about is BBBEE in our efforts to transform both property ownership and the development market .
The Property Sector Transformation Charter has highlighted the limited participation of black people , especially women and the youth , in the broader property sector .
One of our core mandates is to raise and structure the capital required for the implementation of mega projects in Gauteng . We focus on turnkey developments by providing strategic financial investment for property assets and developments . We strive to prioritise the economic inclusion of HDIs in our approach . The GPF is committed to supporting the growth of emerging black property developers and to support their participation in the affordable housing market .
As the GPF we are therefore very proud today to be a turnkey partner in this Rehoboth Hills Project with Bixowise . This project demonstrates the affirmative value of public-private partnerships in the delivery of housing . It is an example of what can be achieved when the different spheres of government , as well as implementation agencies such as the GPF , work together with the private sector and civil society to provide affordable housing solutions to our communities .
We share the vision of the MEC , Mr Lebogang Maile , and the Gauteng provincial government that it is possible to transform the province spatially through the delivery of sustainable and integrated human settlements .
Over the past five years the City of Ekurhuleni has cemented its reputation as a metro government with an enviable track record of delivery on mega-housing projects . In his State of the City address , last week , Executive Mayor Masina reported on the successful delivery of housing units and serviced stands and referred to several other mega-projects that are currently underway .
I have no doubt that the Rehoboth Hills project which we are launching today is contributing towards the broader objectives to deliver a mix of housing opportunities that will meet the needs of all sectors of society .
This is but one of the many projects in the GPF pipeline in the city of Ekurhuleni and beyond .
Through the provision of dignified shelter that is located close to work and business opportunities , transport nodes and social amenities we can create viable and sustainable communities and improve the quality of life of the people of this beloved province , Gauteng .
In addressing you as our founder , MEC , I place on record the GPF Board of Trustees , Management and Staff ’ s commitment to redoubling our efforts in becoming the catalyst of choice for similar developments across the Gauteng province . This is something we can do and are willing to do and a cursory look at our 2021-2025 strategy will show that we are on a firm track .
In conclusion I wish to congratulate all the partners , including Dr Dumani Kula and his team , on the success of this Rehoboth Hills project , which is a sterling example of what is possible . This team is a testament to black excellence , to leadership and nation building through transformation . Well done Dr Kula …. Onwards and upwards , we have great hopes of your expansion in this sector .
I leave you quoting the wise words of the father of nation , Dr Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela : “ Poverty is not an accident . Like slavery and apartheid , it is man-made and can be removed by the actions of human beings …”
All of us gathered here today have been gifted the opportunity to contribute to the eradication of poverty and homelessness and the restoration of dignity in our chosen profession . I urge you to exploit this privilege fully .
In uTata ’ s words : “ Your playing small does not serve the world . Who are you not to be great ?” May we all go forth in promoting human rights especially the right to shelter with renewed vigour .
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