The national leader of Rise Mzansi is expected to conduct an oversight visit to the incomplete multimillion housing projects in Bloemfontein.

Songezo Zibi’s visit forms part of the party’s campaign in Mangaung, said chief organiser, Makashule Gana. The Dark and Silver City housing projects have been white elephants since the construction started a decade ago.

Last year, concerns were raised after community members attempted to occupy the incomplete buildings illegally. During the State of the Province Address, Premier Mxolisi Dukwana said the provincial government has prioritised the project.

The project started a decade ago during the premiership of Ace Magashule to provide low-income earners with affordable housing. At least R110 million was allocated. However, by 2018 at least R260 million had been spent.

The flats were to be occupied by people who earned between R1 622 and R7 500 monthly. Rentals were expected to start from R450 per month for a bachelor flat and up to R2 250 for a three-bedroom flat. 

In 2015, it was reported by the provincial government that the construction was well under way and the completion date was set for 2016. Seven years and two premiers later, it remains white elephants.

In 2018, as Magashule was about to become the ANC Secretary-General, he said he would pressurise everyone involved for the project to be completed. The delay was blamed on the contractor. Magashule said its contract would be terminated, should it not be able to complete the work.

Magashule’s successor, Sisi Ntombela, once visited the development and stated she was concerned about the project’s pace. Dukwana said the provincial government had refocused on these community residential units' work to ensure the completion of these projects. 

He said repairs at G-Hostel in Welkom, with the capacity to house 780 units, had started. He assured similar work had started at Dark and Silver City in Mangaung. These two projects have a combined capacity of over 812 units.

Meanwhile, Zibi is also expected to go to Botshabelo to campaign ahead of the national and provincial elections.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg