​I note the community march to the Regional Offices in Region G by some of the residents of informal settlements located in Ennerdale, Lawley, Vlakfontein and Orange Farm. It is apparent that the discontentment is centered around the lack of service delivery in Region G.

While I understand the frustration expressed by the communities, the City of Johannesburg is constrained in efforts to build housing developments at this point. This is due to delays on the Sedibeng Sewer Works Scheme which is being conducted by the Department of Water and Sanitation and COGTA.

Housing development in Region G is dependent upon the completion of the sewer works project. The following areas have been affected:

Poortjie Dark City, Ennerdale Extension 6, Ennerdale Extension, Kanana Park Extension 6, Orange Farm Extension 10 and Mountain View.

We acknowledge the importance of communities holding government accountable to service delivery shortfalls.

Communities are free to express their dissatisfaction through peaceful gatherings; I encourage residents to do so without causing any disruption to services or destruction of properties that are meant for public use.

It is no secret that the City faces a major housing crisis, with a backlog of approximately 300 000 units that are urgently required to be provided.

An integrated housing development is planned for Region G where different housing typologies will accommodate the diverse needs of the residents of the City.

I remain committed to ensuring that housing delivery improves the quality of life of our communities. Safe and affordable housing remains a key priority for this administration and collectively we endeavor to ensure that this key deliverable is prioritized.

Cllr Meshack Van Wyk
MMC for Housing
City of Johannesburg

For media queries, contact:

Willington Simelane
Stakeholder Liaison Manager: Office of the MMC for Housing
Mobile: 071 865 2920
Email: willingtons@joburg.org.za