Alexandra renewal project – R1.3 billion

 

Where are the leaders on all levels of government?
Johannesburg – R1.3 billion – Alexandra Renewal Project – Corruption

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Maile is expected to tell the inquiry what problems his department is facing in Alexandra and how they plan to address those challenges.   The inquiry follows a spate of protests in the township earlier this year. It is also looking at how these impact the fundamental rights of communities and whether they amount to maladministration, abuse of power, corruption and improper conduct.

National Police Commissioner Khehla Sitole told the inquiry that the Alexandra police station is in desperate need of more resources to ensure efficient policing of the township.   Gauteng Community Safety MEC Faith Mazibuko also testified, saying that a provincial crime summit will be convened this year to find solutions to decrease the high crime rate in the province, particularly in Alexandra.

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The renewal project is a joint initiative of the three spheres of government, the private sector and community-based organisations that is being implemented over seven years.

The national government allocated R1,3-billion towards the project, which aims to improve the physical, social and economic environment of Alexandra, thereby instilling a culture of civic pride. Its targets include increased local employment, a healthier environment, affordable and sustainable services, cutting crime by 50 percent, and upgraded and additional housing in conjunction with de-densification in some areas.

The Alexandra Development Framework guides all public and private sector investment in the township and provides the City council with a framework for by-law enforcement. A total of 10 development precincts have been demarcated, while the relocation of more than 10 000 households from the banks of the Jukskei River has been completed.

A vital aspect of the project is increased awareness regarding the heritage and redevelopment of the famous township. Arts, cultural and recreational activities are supported through community-driven institutions and there is a strong focus on promoting positive social networks such as religious, family and social organisations.

The renewal project is a joint initiative of the three spheres of government, the private sector and community-based organisations that is being implemented over seven years.

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There was drama at the Alexandra Inquiry in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on Tuesday. Gauteng Human Settlements MEC Lebogang Maile appeared to lose his cool as he faced tough questions over allegations of missing funds allocated to the Alex Renewal Project. He dismissed the corruption allegations as a political game. Maageketla Mohlabe reports…

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There have been angry words at the inquiry into the situation in Alexandra on Tuesday. The Human Rights Commission and the Public Protector’s office are investigating the situation there, and in particular, the Alexandra Renewal Project. Today Gauteng Human Settlements MEC Lebogang Maile came close to losing his temper when he was asked questions by the Human Rights Commission. SABC reporter Maageketla Mohlabe was there at the inquiry.

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ALEXANDRIA

IF IT IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE – WHO MUST ARREST THE PEOPLE THEN

Land invasion is a criminal offence and must be treated as such. That’s the word from National Police Commissioner, General Khehla Sitole, testifying at the Alexandra Inquiry on Monday. It was set up after weeks of disruptive service delivery protests and incidents of land invasion earlier this year.

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