HRC investigates poor living conditions
"I confirm we are investigating this complaint regarding living conditions at the settlement and service delivery."
The Human Rights Commission confirmed that it launched an investigation into the poor living conditions at the KwaMai-Mail informal settlement.
Despite numerous articles by the EXPRESS regarding the poor living conditions experienced by the residents of KwaMai-Mai and a visit from the Department of Housing, still nothing has changed for these residents.
A visit by the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) Department of Housing took place on March 7.
According to Clr Bongani Nkwanyana, they have now taken they case to the Human Rights Commission.
“Together with the residents, we decided to take the matter to the Human Rights Commission and they have accepted the case.
“On May 6, the Human Rights Commission sent a delegation to the settlement. They asked the residents questions and were also shown around. They promised to come back for further investigations,” said Clr Nkwanyana.
Clr Nkwanyana said a second team from the Department of Housing was also recently sent to the settlement for a second visit.
“They have promised that very soon they will deliver 20 mobile toilets, five stand water pipes and a skip-bin. Those things have not been delivered. Residents are still waiting,” said Clr Nkwanyana.
The EXPRESS sent an enquiry to the Human Rights Commission on May 11.
Head of communications, Mr Isaac Mangena, confirmed the matter is being investigated.
“I am aware of the case and an investigation is in progress,” said Mr Mangena.
“I confirm we are investigating this complaint regarding the living conditions at the settlement and service delivery. This is after we received several complaints. An inspection was conducted last week and allegations to the respondents are about to be issued. On receipt of a response from the respondents we will begin to develop a findings-based report, if appropriate,” said Mr Mangena.
The KwaMai-Mai informal settlement in Jeppestown has been in existence for more than 10 years and residents have been pleading with the City of Johannesburg to assist with housing.
The department promised to unblock the drains that are a danger to children. A promise was also made to provide chemical toilets as a temporary measure, along with more water taps. One of the urgent wishes of KwaMai-Mai residents is to receive assistance in getting proper accommodation, as they are becoming ill from the living conditions in the settlement.
The EXPRESS sent an inquiry to the Department of Housing on May 12 and requested comment by 9am on May 13.
At the time of going to print, no comment had been received.
