Question NW2278 to the Minister of Human Settlements

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07 January 2025 - NW2278

Profile picture: Sithole, Mr KP

Sithole, Mr KP to ask the Minister of Human Settlements

Whether she and/or her department has the power to (a) address the dire living conditions and (b) upgrade infrastructure at hostels such as the (i) KwaMashu and (ii) Denver hostels and (c) ensure (i) effective oversight and (ii) accountability in eradicating corruption in (aa) housing allocation and (bb) tender processes; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (aaa) what steps has she or her department taken in each case and (bbb) what are the further relevant details? NW3667

Reply:

a) The National Department of Human Settlements, through the Community Residential Units (CRU) Programme, provides grant funding to provinces and municipalities for the upgrading, conversion, or redevelopment of existing state-owned rental stock, including hostels. This programme targets low-income individuals and households earning below R3,500 per month who are unable to access private rental options.

Summary of KwaMashu Hostel conditions: The infrastructure at KwaMashu Hostel remains severely outdated and overcrowded, accommodating double the intended population. Overpopulation complicates basic utility installations, such as water and electricity meters. Allocations prioritize relocating tenants from old buildings to upgraded units, but enforcement of income qualification criteria remains challenging.

Overview of Gauteng Hostels: Gauteng hosts 65 hostel facilities, with only six directly managed by the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements. The remaining 59 hostels fall under the responsibility of respective municipalities, which oversee basic service provision and regular maintenance.

(b) (i) KwaMashu Hostel:

  • Since 2005, over 600 family units have been upgraded at the KwaMashu Hostel under initial phases. An additional 538 units are planned.
    • The first phase, involving 96 units, began in 2020 but faced delays due to bid documentation errors. Corrective measures are being implemented.
    • The second phase, involving 192 units at Isulabasha, commenced in 2021. By September 2024, contractors had been appointed for 96 units, with site establishment and decanting facilities underway. Another contractor awaits appointment for the remaining 96 units.
    • The third phase, involving 250 units, started in 2024 with design planning at Stage 3. Stage 4 finalization is ongoing, after which tenders will be issued.

(ii) Denver Hostel:

  • The Gauteng Department of Human Settlements (GDHS) owns Denver Hostel and is implementing the following interventions:
    • Routine cleaning, grass cutting, and rubble removal are conducted at least five times a week.
    • Major repairs addressing structural defects and water and sewer infrastructure are underway.
    • A designed Alternative Energy Solution project, including solar lighting, cooking, and water heating, is in progress for Denver and five other hostels.
    • Plans for a 2,000-unit precinct development to replace hostel structures with family units align with sustainable and integrated human settlement strategies.

(c) Oversight and accountability:

(i) Effective oversight:

  • The National Department conducts quarterly oversight meetings with provinces and municipalities implementing the CRU programme, supplemented by site visits.
  • Bi-monthly meetings regarding KwaMashu Hostel and weekly meetings for Denver Hostel involve provincial and municipal stakeholders, alongside hostel leadership.

(ii) Accountability in addressing corruption:

(aa) Housing allocation:

  • Allocation prioritises existing tenants, based on verified municipal records and project steering committee confirmation.

(bb) Tender processes:

  • Tender and procurement processes are centralized and overseen by Bid Committees established by Accounting Officers. Regular audits ensure compliance.
  • Both National and Provincial Departments investigate reported allegations of fraud or irregularities through their Anti-Corruption Units. Identified issues in housing allocation or tender processes are thoroughly addressed.

(aaa) Steps taken:

  • KwaMashu Hostel: The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Human Settlements has initiated the construction of 538 new units, complementing previous upgrades. Professional services were secured to finalise planning and design stages, with tenders issued for subsequent construction phases. Delays due to bid document errors have been rectified to ensure compliance.
  • Denver Hostel: The Gauteng Department of Human Settlements is actively upgrading hostel conditions through structural repairs, cleaning, and innovative energy solutions. Progress includes a precinct development strategy targeting 2,000 family units to replace current hostel structures, fostering sustainable human settlements.

(bbb) Further details:

  • KwaMashu Hostel: Regular bi-monthly meetings with local leadership ensure project alignment and address challenges such as overcrowding and utility infrastructure issues. Site visits and monitoring reports confirm adherence to project timelines.
  • Denver Hostel: Weekly meetings with hostel leadership facilitate ongoing stakeholder engagement. Anti-Corruption Units actively investigate reported irregularities in allocation and tender processes, ensuring accountability and transparency.

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