Recently, I joined MMC André le Roux and MMC Kgosietsile Kgosiemang, together with the Chief Executive Officer of HCI Palesa Mine, Mr Pieter Terblanche. This was for a sod-turning ceremony to mark the construction of 20 low-cost houses in Bronkhorstspruit in Region 7.
The City and HCI Palesa Mine entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to build 20 houses for indigent households in Region 7. The MoU is in line with our mission to eradicate the housing backlog and to see deserving beneficiaries get proper housing and restoration of their dignity.
Under the MoU, HCI Palesa Mine will fund the construction costs, valued at R3,5 million, as part of its community development project. On its part, the City will provide serviced stands and ensure the installation of sewer, water, reticulation and electricity infrastructure.
This public-private partnership came about after HCI Palesa Mine approached the City last year to enquire about the best way to uplift the community of Region 7, where the mine operates.
The beneficiaries of this project include indigents, child-headed families and people living with disabilities. They were carefully selected by the City with assistance from social workers and ward councillors in consultation with the mining company.
I want to thank HCI Palesa Mine for giving back to the community and for its ongoing operations giving economic opportunities to our residents. I would also like to acknowledge the Ndzundza SoKhulumi Traditional Council, led by Chief Mahlangu and his entourage, for supporting this project.
Our multi-party coalition government encourages, and values public-private partnerships that are aimed at uplifting the lives of our residents.