An aerial view of an informal settlement in Durban. Concern has been raised about the housing shortage in KwaZulu-Natal. File Picture: Independent Newspapers Archives
Durban: The DA in KwaZulu-Natal has raised concerns about the delay in the completion of housing projects amid severe housing shortages in the province.
The party said that a Portfolio Committee meeting of the Department of Human Settlements (DHS) revealed that 46 housing projects remain stalled.
DA Member of Provincial Legislature and party spokesperson on DHS, Riona Gokool, stated that they are calling for a complete turnaround strategy from the department.
“This follows a provincial Human Settlements portfolio committee meeting held last month, which exposed a dire need for the department to revitalise its operations to improve living conditions within many KZN communities.
“The DA has called for a stronger focus on good governance, service delivery, financial management and community engagement. The strategy also needs to address systemic challenges, streamline processes, and ensure sustainable, inclusive development within the sector.
“With a staggering 46 housing projects currently stalled in KZN, the DA has further recommended a greater focus on effective departmental oversight,” she said.
The party emphasised that where municipalities have failed to deliver in terms of appointing reliable contractors and management—which is the case with these projects—the DHS needs to stop passing the buck and be accountable and proactive.
“In the event that municipalities are unable to deliver, they cannot be permitted to manage further housing projects.
“The time has come for KZN’s DHS to develop a strategy that allows every citizen access to quality, affordable housing and essential services. It is critical that sustainable, vibrant, and well-managed communities are developed to contribute to our province’s broader economic and social development goals. This can only be achieved through effective leadership, improved governance, and enhanced community participation,” she concluded.
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