Honourable Pam Tshwete, Deputy Minister of Human Settlements, recently gave a speech at the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Week to discuss the progress of bulk infrastructure projects in North West Province. The province, located in South Africa, faces several difficulties in providing basic services and housing to its residents.
Grants for Service Delivery
The Department of Human Settlements distributes grants to provinces for service delivery, including the Human Settlements Development Grant (HSDG), Informal Settlements Upgrading Grant (ISUPG), and the Urban Settlement Development Grant (USDG). In the 2023/24 financial year, the North West Province received approximately R1.3 billion for the HSDG, of which R133 million was allocated for infrastructure. The province also received around R408 million for ISUPG and R43 million for unblocking blocked projects.
Concerns over Performance
Despite these investments, Tshwete voiced concern over the province’s performance during the first quarter. She highlighted the need to address the backlog of 38,500 projects and ensure the efficient use of allocated funds. Notably, the North West Province has budgeted R135.2 million for the Matlosana N12 project, aiming to deliver 400 units, 355 service sites, and 3,671 title deeds.
Flagship Projects
One of the provincial flagship projects is the N14 Development, designed to provide bulk services, internal services, and top structures (360 units) in Touvleg. Progress on the N14 Development to date includes the installation of internal services, appointment of a contractor for bulk services augmentation, and the ongoing appointment of five service providers to construct 1,500 houses.
Areas of Concern
However, Tshwete also highlighted some areas of concern, such as the slow progress in unblocking 315 units in the current financial year. So far, only 12 units have been unblocked. Additionally, the aftermath of last year’s flood disaster in Deelpan village continues to pose challenges. While most of the 800 displaced individuals returned to their homes, 20 evacuees stayed with relatives due to uninhabitable conditions.
Need for Monitoring
The North West Province has secured land for relocating affected households, but Tshwete emphasized the need for the National Department to closely monitor both the province’s expenditure and delivery performance.
Commitment to Improving Quality of Life
The NCOP’s focus on North West Province’s infrastructure projects reflects South Africa’s commitment to ensuring a better quality of life for its citizens. By addressing the challenges in service delivery and housing, the government aims to create an inclusive and sustainable future for the North West Province and beyond. While progress has been made in specific projects, the overall performance requires improvement, as noted by Deputy Minister Tshwete.
