One of these projects is the Dark and Silver City housing project in Bochabela that has become a white elephant since construction began more than a decade ago. The project is aimed at replacing old hostel structures with modern, sustainable community residential units. 

The project is divided into two sites, Top Site and Bottom Site, comprising of 286 and 526 units, and is managed by the Free State Department of Human Settlements. Despite ongoing setbacks linked to contractual disputes, vandalism, and community disruptions, the presidency says progress has been made.

The development has reached key milestones, with the first phase expected to be completed by the end of May 2026, delivering 230 units, said presidential spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya.

There have been longstanding concerns regarding community members attempting to unlawfully occupy incomplete buildings. The project, which began during the premiership of Ace Magashule, was intended to provide affordable housing for low-income earners.

Initially allocated R110m, costs escalated significantly, with at least R260m spent by 2018. The flats were earmarked for residents earning between R1,622 and R7,500 a month, with rental prices ranging from R450 for bachelor units to R2,250 for three-bedroom flats.

In 2015, the provincial government indicated that construction was progressing well and projected completion in 2016. However, nearly a decade later and after two changes in provincial leadership, the project remains unfinished.

Phased occupation to start from April

The Free State government has since committed to accelerating housing delivery. As of March last year, the Dark and Silver City social housing project was reported to be 78% complete, with phased occupation planned from next month. This approach is intended to allow qualifying beneficiaries to move in as sections are finalised.

Meanwhile, the G-Hostel project is at 55% completion and expected to follow a similar phased rollout.

“The visit to the project will precede a high-level engagement with the Free State provincial government to strengthen intergovernmental relations scheduled for 26 March next year in Bloemfontein. The focus will be on fixing the local government and boosting the economy,” said Magwenya.

Ramaphosa will be joined during the visit by human settlements minister Thembi Simelane, Free State premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae and Mangaung mayor Gregory Nthatisi.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cvdw

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