The public participation process will start this month to discuss the implementation of the three-pronged approach that will cost an estimated R118,2 million and includes communal ablution facilities, a flush toilet with a foundation for a house as well as the implementation of the distinctive Metro House.
Dr Walter Shaidi, Executive Director of Infrastructure, Engineering, Electricity and Energy, said the communal ablution facilities are either a light steel structure or a pre-prepared structure that will be placed on a foundation and can easily be removed to avoid a situation where the land is invaded all over again after households are relocated.
“The interim approach to build a flush toilet and a foundation will allow people to wait for a formal house in more dignified circumstances,”Shaidi said.
Portfolio Chairperson for Infrastructure, Engineering, Electricity and Energy Andile Mfunda said at a full sitting of council that the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality wants to bring back the dignity of our people.
“When Executive Mayor Benson Fihla took office he made a pertinent call that the bucket system must be addressed as it is a disgrace to our people.
“Executive Mayor, we are heeding your call as I have personal knowledge of this system. I grew up in Kwazakhele and used the bucket system myself.
“Time for talking is over now,” Mfunda said.
The municipality budgeted R80 million for this year and next year and plans to pilot the facilities in 7de Laan (Helenvale), Mahashe Village (Despatch), Kriekie & Mooi Valley (Despatch), Walmer Township, Polar Park (Uitenhage), Kabah Langa, Nkatha Seyisi, Vista Village, Vastrap, Ericadene, St. Albans and Chris Hani.
During the construction each unit can create up to 10 job opportunities that equates to 2 500 temporary jobs during the construction phase and 250 Co-operatives could be created to operate the communal ablutions under a managing contractor to ensure the transfer of business skills.
This system is already successfully implemented in Durban by the eThekwini Municipality.
NMB Communications
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