An estimated R4bn required to eradicate hazardous asbestos roofing. However, the Free State department of human settlements has reiterated its commitment to removing asbestos roofs. This despite the slow pace of progress since the project was first identified more than a decade ago.

In 2014, at least 36,000 houses containing asbestos were earmarked under a R255m programme, but meaningful progress has only recently begun.

Delivering the department’s 2026/27 budget vote at Thabo Thokoza Secondary School in Bethlehem on Thursday (23/4), Free State human settlements MEC, Saki Mokoena confirmed that initial work is now underway.

“The province has effectively begun with the asbestos removal project. I can report that the contractor, as appointed and in compliance with required health and safety standards, has finished all 180 houses identified,” he said.

For the 2026/27 financial year, R30m has been allocated to address 250 houses in identified areas. However, this represents only a fraction of the broader need. The province is among those with the highest number of asbestos roofs, with an estimated 33,000 still requiring replacement at a projected cost of about R4bn.

“The department is considering a number of options to manage this challenge in mitigation of both health hazards faced by our people and the unavailable resources needed to eradicate asbestos. Speaker, we are open to alternatives that can help us manage these identified risks that we are sitting with.” 

As part of efforts to accelerate delivery, the department is exploring alternative building technologies (ABT/IBT) to speed up the provision of decent housing in both rural and urban areas, while maintaining safety and durability standards.

The renewed push to remove asbestos comes against the backdrop of the controversial 2014 asbestos audit project, which failed to deliver on its mandate and is now the subject of a high-profile court case.

At least 18 suspects are facing charges, including fraud, corruption and money laundering. Among them are former Free State premier Ace Magashule, businessman Edwin Sodi, former Mangaung mayor Olly Mlamleli, former HOD Nthimotse Mokhesi, supply chain director Mahlomola John Matlakala, and Magashule’s former personal assistant, Moroadi Cholota.

Earlier this month, the Free State high court postponed the matter to 20 August to allow Mokhesi to secure legal representation after his lawyer withdrew in January due to financial constraints.

Meanwhile, the NPA has made progress in recovering funds linked to the scandal. In March, the high court in Bloemfontein granted a final forfeiture order of assets worth R32mn, including six luxury properties and a Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG.

OFM News  reported investigations revealed that funds from the irregular tender were channelled through various trusts including the McGina Property Trust, Villa Castello Residence Trust, and SAB Family Trust to acquire high-value properties in Sandton, Hartbeespoort, Wonderboom, Randburg and Parys.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg

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