The Brandwag Social Housing Project in Mangaung Metro Municipality was initially envisioned as a beacon of hope to deliver affordable housing and a secure environment for our residents. Regrettably, due to mismanagement and oversight failures, this vision faltered, leaving many Mangaung residents without the secure homes they desperately need.

Launched in the early 2000s with ambitious goals of urban renewal, the Brandwag social housing project has not met its aspirations despite significant financial investments from ratepayers. The Free State Social Housing Company (FRESHCO), tasked with its implementation, faced numerous challenges including financial difficulties, allegations of mismanagement and fraud, and struggles in securing long-term funding for maintenance and expansion. The Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA) intervened by placing FRESHCO under administration in 2019. While some housing units were initially constructed, the project's overarching goal of large-scale revitalisation remains unrealised.

In stark contrast, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has demonstrated a robust commitment to addressing housing challenges across municipalities. Projects like Pelican Park and Constitution Street Social Housing in Cape Town, Fleurhof in Johannesburg, Mahube Valley Extension in Tshwane, and Joe Slovo Housing Project in Nelson Mandela Bay exemplify the DA’s dedication to improving living conditions through sustainable urban planning and community integration.

The DA remains concerned about the future of legal tenants who have consistently met their rental obligations in the Brandwag project. We advocate for fair treatment under new management, proposing either the retention of current tenants or a transparent reapplication process that favours those with a history of timely payments.

The DA underscores the importance of quarterly progress reports to monitor and ensure project advancement. Addressing the urgent need for affordable, safe housing near economic centres requires decisive leadership and collective action. The DA reiterates its commitment to upholding dignity, ensuring security, and protecting the rights of all Mangaung residents through inclusive, sustainable housing solutions.

 

Issued by Corize van Rensburg - DA Councillor Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality