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The DA in the Western Cape once again calls for transparency from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) regarding the District Six redevelopment project. This follows reports that in a filing to the Land Claims Court, the DALRRD confirmed that plans are currently in place in regards to Phase 4 of its District Six redevelopment project which will include 177 housing units.

While the planning of Phase 4 in Hanover Street is a welcomed development, the reality is that the rollout of Phase 3 has been nothing short of haphazard. Phase 3 of the District Six redevelopment was marred by delays and poor workmanship which prevented several beneficiaries from moving into their units. Due to the numerous delays, land invasions also gained popularity in District Six.

Transparency is needed in regards to the timelines of Phase 4 and the project as a whole. The DA calls on the DALRRD to provide specific clarity on the following:

A status update on current developments of the District Six redevelopment project;

The measurable targets and timelines that have been set for the completion of different phases 4 and beyond of construction; and

The estimated dates of completion and handover.

This information would not be difficult to extract from a functioning and efficient government but it seems nearly impossible when engaging with the national government. The details of the project are not only important for the sake of oversight but also for the sake of the claimants and beneficiaries who have been hoping to return to their treasured community for decades.

MPP Matlhodi Maseko says: “I recently wrote to the Deputy President, David Mabuza, requesting an update on the District Six redevelopment project. The ANC national government took on the duty of providing justice and dignity to the dispossessed community of District Six, sadly justice continue to be denied for this community.

I urge Deputy President Mabuza and Minister Didiza to play open cards with the people of District Six and to provide proper timelines on Phase 4 and other upcoming phases of redevelopment. I shall also liaise with my DA counterparts in the National Assembly to address parliamentary questions to the Minister regarding this project. The DA in the Western Cape will continue to stand with the community of District Six until each claimant returns back to their rightful home.”

Issued by Matlhodi Maseko, MPP - DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Human Settlements