WC Infrastructure Dep. spends R161 million 2022/23 financial year on security to mitigate scourge against 'construction mafia'

The Western Cape’s Infrastructure Department said it had spent more than R161 million on security to mitigate the scourge against extortionists of the so-called construction mafia.

MEC Tertius Simmers said because of this, 125 housing opportunities were lost. He added that an increase in interest rates, also affected the citizens’ uptake of the First Home Finance, better known as FLISP. 

PICTURED: Bush Radio's Mitchum George interviewing MEC Tertius Simmers

Simmers presented its 2022/23 end-of-year performance outcomes, to the Provincial Parliament’s Standing Committee.

‘’Despite these challenges, the department was able to deliver 7 808 housing opportunities and processed 3 727 title deeds in its pursuit of security of tenure for residents of the province. In its continuance as the leading province in the delivery of affordable housing, the department delivered 1 108 FLISP housing opportunities making affordable housing accessible to more residents.’’

Speaking on the impact of instability in local councils on the delivery of projects, Simmers said: “Following the 2021 local government elections, we saw a change in resources at some of the municipalities. Institutional knowledge and expertise was lost and certain municipalities were incapacitated and lacked an understanding of the human settlement ecosystem and delivery cycle which has impacted on the delivery of housing opportunities.” 

 “However, as a provincial government that is committed to delivering the best possible housing opportunities and services, we have set up mechanisms to mitigate and empower our local governments. I have implemented a 2-legged District Municipality Outreach programme which seeks to upskill and support municipal staff in understanding and working to deliver housing opportunities. Due to such interventions, we have seen an improvement in municipalities that are partnering with us,’’ he added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George