The multimillion-rand project, which is converting old hostel structures into modern family units, has faced years of delays, contractor problems, and a Hawks investigation into the allocation of public funds. The National Council of Provinces (NCOP) is in the Free State for a week-long oversight visit to assess infrastructure projects and revisit developments previously found incomplete. 

Reporting to NCOP members at Southern Life Plaza in Bloemfontein on Tuesday (18/8), Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae said significant progress had been made at G-Hostel, with 270 units completed.

Further construction phases are underway, while alternative modular wastewater treatment solutions are being explored. The municipality’s failing bulk infrastructure, however, remains a major stumbling block. 

Letsoha-Mathae told members that Matjhabeng’s sewerage infrastructure cannot currently accommodate additional connections, while water infrastructure and electricity supply also remain challenges.

“We all know the issues. Matjhabeng’s sewage infrastructure cannot currently accommodate connections. Challenges with water infrastructure and Eskom remain. 

“I know, honourable members, we still have challenges with electricity. Even our wastewater treatment plants are experiencing problems.”

Security has meanwhile been strengthened to protect completed infrastructure while solutions to the bulk water and sewerage problems are finalised.

Free State Cooperative Governance and Human Settlements MEC Saki Mokoena told the NCOP the current administration had worked to revive both the G-Hostel and Dark and Silver City housing projects after years of stagnation. Government has adopted a phased approach to allow completed units to be occupied while outstanding work is addressed.

“As we speak today, we can report, Chair, that in terms of G-Hostel, we are planning to deliver a total of about 70 units, and as we speak, 270 are done. We are ready to rent this, with the facility management already appointed. 

“The challenge we are dealing with is the issue of bulk sewerage and water in Matjhabeng.”

Government is also working with Eskom, which supplies electricity to the area, while security has been deployed to prevent vandalism at completed units before tenants move in. The phased approach is intended to get residents into completed homes without waiting for the entire development to be finalised, Mokoena said.

Progress has also been reported at the Dark and Silver City project in Mangaung. Ninety-eight tenants have been approved, with 19 already occupying their units and the remaining 79 being processed for occupation.

Dark and Silver City provides modern rental accommodation comprising bachelor, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units for qualifying residents. The provincial government says 130 units are available and has encouraged prospective tenants to register their interest and follow the application process.

Work with Eskom and efforts to secure alternative wastewater solutions at G-Hostel will continue as government works towards occupying completed units. 

Security will remain in place to protect infrastructure while the outstanding bulk service problems are resolved.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh

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