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The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda's announcement that there are plans in place to “un-block” the infamously stalled Umbhayi Housing Project in Tongaat.

In a statement, Kaunda alluded that the municipality was consolidating the list of all stalled and disrupted housing projects to unblock them.

For years, the DA in eThekwini has applied pressure about the city’s sudden inability to deliver houses for beneficiaries.

We are pleased with the fact that our efforts have forced the ANC-run eThekwini to finally resume a project that was halted more than three years ago.

It is however concerning that no consequence management has been implemented for lost funds due to project delays. We call on officials and the EFF/ANC government to account for those funds that could have been used to build more houses.

eThekwini has a few projects that are milking more funds than initially planned, these include the:

• Kennedy Road Housing Project (R18 million additional from the initial budget of R25 million);
• Umbhayi Housing Project, launched in 2017 started in 2018;
• Nanda Stop 8 Housing Project (R49 million additional from R83 million used on original budget), a Project launched in 2019;
• Impola Housing Project (R10 m additional requested), launched in 2019;
• Madamfana Housing Project, launched in 2017 and;
• Burton Place Housing Project

In late July, we requested the report on identified bottlenecked projects that the mayor said would be unlocked, had been intensified across the City, and plans were afoot to officially resuscitate more stalled or disrupted projects, we are yet to receive the report.

As we approach 2024, KZN citizens are reminded that only the DA cares about good governance. Voters will have the opportunity to bring about accountable, open governance that respects and dignifies the laws of our country.

Issued by Councillor Zamani Khuzwayo - DA eThekwini Councillor