Half a billion for upgrading in human settlements
1 August 2023
The DA-run Western Cape Government has allocated over half a billion rand this financial year alone for upgrading initiatives to improve informal settlements. Some settlements set for upgrading include Dunoon, Airport precinct, Kosovo Main, Thabo Mbeki, Welmoed, Silvertown and many more.
A significant sum of R505,998 million is being invested to provide essential services such as clean water, sanitation, electricity, and other basic amenities to our informal settlements this year. This will be funded by the Department of Infrastructure’s 2023/24 Informal Settlements Upgrade Partnership Grant (ISUP-G).
Currently, there are 40 projects underway across the province, each at various stages of development. Notably, 10 of these projects are in the implementation phase and are set to deliver 2007 serviced sites, while 3 projects are already providing basic services to their beneficiaries. The remaining projects are being prepared for delivery over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period.
Additionally, to improve overall fire safety in our informal settlements, the Western Cape Government has taken proactive steps by installing 13,000 fire alarm systems throughout informal settlements in the province. These fire alarms play a crucial role in providing early warnings and ensuring the safety of communities in the Western Cape. To date, R2.6 million has been spent on these fire alarm systems.
MPP Matlhodi Maseko said: “The DA-run Western Cape province will continue to prioritise the needs of our most vulnerable communities. All residents who are in need of housing are encouraged to register their housing needs on the housing demand database, which will aid in better planning and allocation of resources.
Through these efforts, the government aims to uplift the living conditions of those in informal settlements and provide them with the dignity and opportunities they rightfully deserve.”
Issued by Matlhodi Maseko, DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Infrastructure, 1 August 2023
