When those thrust into top positions of power fight, the grassroots, in a defenceless position, suffers.
This was said by Alex philanthropist Linda Twala on Mandela Day at Phuthadichaba Community Development Centre on accusations and counter-accusations on corruption among those in leadership positions. He recounted the late statesman, Nelson Mandela as an exception to this conduct. “He had an exceptional aura, leadership acumen and humility.
“He was an icon who our current leadership is failing to emulate in the interest of the poor who are a majority and looking up to them to alleviate their suffering.”
Twala said this as many leaders seemingly fingered in a range of shenanigans and questionable conduct at a time when particularly the poor anticipate improvements in their lives in sync with campaign slogans and commitments on service delivery which are coming short of expectation. “Many continue to live in appalling conditions 25 years into democracy and they won’t rest their protests until promises for jobs and land for housing development is delivered.”
With regards to the the long awaited promise for land in Frankenwald and other areas which have been under negotiations for many years, he said, “The housing challenge is a uniting theme for them and they won’t be deceived with broken promises.”
He challenged parliamentarians to come and spend a night in shacks in the township to feel and understand the suffering and dehumanising conditions of the occupants causing the uneasiness. He also urged government to consider involving the intended beneficiaries of the house in their construction. “They have various skills in the construction industry and are keen to contribute through sweat equity to develop quality homes better than many low-quality RDP homes.
“Women with babies on their backs will be involved and the youth will also acquire skills when working under expert supervision.” This he said about the global social housing development agency Habitat for Humanity’s strategy that involves beneficiary participation.
Twala further urged government to consider using metal containers for interim housing saying were fireproof to stop shack fires. “They can be insulated and installed with internal electricity, plumbing and water supplies for the convenience of the occupants, reduce safety risks associated with using public toilets at night and also, stop illegal electricity connections.”
He said unlike shacks, they would be mounted orderly and bring safety and peace as transition places for desperate residents awaiting permanent homes. He added that this could be an endowment which the older generation would bestow to and be remembered by their children. “We shouldn’t die leaving them in such abhorrent conditions.”
Twala also urged the private sector to increase its corporate social investment obligations. “It should equate with substantive improvement expected in the benefits and living conditions of employees many of who still live in shacks and walk to and from work regardless of the weather.”
He said their once-off donations of blankets, food, toilets and other items should improve to reflect true citizenship that’s committed to improving the quality of life and reduce the gap making South Africa the most unequal country globally.
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