The approval of such a dignity centre or transitional shelter for homeless individuals follows a motion brought by the DA to address Matjhabeng’s growing homelessness crisis. The motion was tabled on Thursday, 27 August, and unanimously approved by the council.

Its proposer, Cllr René Steyn, has been tasked – alongside the office of the executive mayor – with refining the centre’s details and logistics. “This includes selecting a suitable location, securing funding, and working with key partners such as the department of home affairs and social development, the police, municipal law enforcement, and NGOs.

“The establishment of a dignity centre is not intended as a permanent housing programme, but rather as a structured, transitional intervention to restore dignity, provide immediate relief and create pathways out of homelessness,” said Steyn.

“The homelessness in Matjhabeng is a growing crisis, where displaced individuals are increasingly occupying public and private property, resulting in illegal dumping, vandalism, fires, and significant public health and safety risks.

“Until now, the municipality has lacked a structured mechanism to address the problem in a lawful, coordinated, and compassionate way. The proposed dignity centre is a practical and humane model, based on successful examples such as Cape Town’s Safe Space initiative.”

‘Homelessness in Matjhabeng requires urgent and coordinated action’

The centre will provide:

• Reintegration opportunities: access to skills development, employment support, including Expanded Public Works Programme opportunities, and family reunification where possible.
• Profiling and support services: Homeless individuals will be registered, assisted with obtaining identification documents, and linked to social services, including healthcare, substance abuse rehabilitation, and grant applications.
• Lawful enforcement support: By offering alternative accommodation, the centre will empower the municipality and law enforcement to act within constitutional and legal frameworks when clearing unlawful occupations.
• Temporary shelter and sanitation: safe overnight accommodation, gender-separated sleeping areas, and basic ablution facilities.

“By adopting this motion, the council has acknowledged that homelessness in Matjhabeng requires urgent and coordinated action,” said Steyn. “This resolution is proof that practical solutions are possible when the focus is placed squarely on serving the community.”

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