Department to probe price tag on temporary units
Investigation will determine value
The department of human settlements has ordered two independent investigations into the suspected low-quality temporary tin shelters built at Talana Hostel in Tzaneen, Limpopo.
The department’s directorgeneral, Joseph Leshabane, said they commissioned two investigations to determine the quality and standard of the controversial 40 temporary shelters following a public outcry.
Speaking at the provincial Covid-19 command council (PCC) press briefing in Polokwane, Leshabane said the investigations will be conducted by an independent engineer and the National Home Building Registration Council to further determine if they meet the housing code.
“Due to the urgency of this matter, we have commissioned these investigation also to determine value for money.
“We will make report available in no more than 14 working days,” he said.
Leshabane said the investigation report will be handed over to both minister Lindiwe Sisulu and premier Stan Mathabatha.
Mathabatha cut the ribbon at the unveiling of the structures last week, causing a lot of public outrage.
His spokesperson Kenny Mathivha this week told Sowetan that Mathabatha did not know that he was going to unveil the shacks.
Speaking at the briefing, Mathabatha said on Talana Transitional Residential Area (TRA) in particular, the PCC has noted concerns raised by members of the public.
“These concerns are with respect to the type of units built and subsequently handed over to the families concerned, as well as the costs involved.
“It must be stated from the onset that this is a national project of the department of human settlements implemented in all nine provinces in the country,” he said.
Thulani Mohlala of Aventino
Group which was awarded the R2.4m tender to construct 40 “low-cost housing” units this week hit back at his critics, saying the company only made a profit of just R3,000 per unit.
Mohlala said the company had used IBR zinc with 250 years lifespan and very resistance to rust.
The shelters were also fitted with a fabric inside in order to be adjustable to weather conditions, he said.
MEC for human settlements in the province Basikopo Makamu said the role of his department was to identify a deserving informal settlement where it is impractical to practice social distancing and then apply for approval from the HDA.