Media Statement - 20 June 2012

Human Settlements Minister Tokyo Sexwale today launched a R300 million high rise project in Welkom, Free State. This project is a partnership between government and the private sector, in response to the Minister's call for more involvement from those outside government

'This is a quality project that ensures that we give our people homes and thereby ensuring them a great future. We have always called for more partnerships and it is wonderful to see big corporates like Harmony coming to the party,' said Sexwale.

The Masimong project consists of 461 units, 110 of them are already completed and are targeted at the mine workers and the general public of Masimong.

"In the past accommodation for mine workers was inhumane, we want to bring dignity to the people and providing families with quality accommodation closer to where they work."

Accompanying Sexwale was Harmony Gold chairperson, Patrice Motsepe who said he was encouraged by such partnerships and the role they play in helping government deliver to the people of South Africa

'No company or firm exists in a vacuum. We are all part of the bigger picture and if our people are not taken care of by us together with government, we will all sink. Business has no future if the workers do not have proper Human Settlements, ' said Motsepe.

The project has a recreational center, banks, church, creche, media centre, paraplegic workshop and and places where people can do their shopping, all these facilities to make sure citizens live productive lives. More than 3000 jobs were created.

'We will look after this project and I am calling on the community to guard this jealously. This is ours and we should be proud of it," urged MEC of Human Settlements in the Free State, Sarah Mlamleli.

The units are divided into bachelors, one bedrooms, two bedrooms and three bedrooms, they range from R500.00 ‑ R1200.00 per month. The project is expected to be completed in November.

For more information contact: Xolani Xundu on 083 788 5747

Press Release Date: 
Wednesday, June 20, 2012