Homelessness in Mogale City has been a sensitive topic for some time.
Many of the homeless people in the community have endured some hardships from dealing with the harsh cold fronts and the lack of food and items to keep them safe. The municipality reportedly tried to make an effort to resolve the homelessness issue, however, it never came to fruition.
Plans for a new shelter to be built were put in place back in 2021 by the then-DA-led Mogale City administration. According to Mogale City councillor Mark Trump, the shelter was meant to assist the homeless population to overcome their difficulties going beyond living on the streets as many also suffered from drug addiction and substance abuse.
In 2021, Trump said the DA initiated plans to address homelessness in the municipality, including establishing a municipal shelter for transient individuals. The goal was to empower them to overcome addiction, rehabilitate and reintegrate into society as responsible citizens.
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“Under the guidance of the MMC for Social Development at the time, the municipality set in motion a strategic initiative to establish a municipal shelter.”
He added that effective leadership is crucial for driving plans and initiatives, especially in municipalities. Former Executive Mayor Tyrone Gray’s tenure in Mogale City supported MMCs and progress, but momentum was disrupted by opposition parties’ motions, halting plans for a 120-person facility.
“It is disheartening to see the regression that has occurred under the current leadership, and I hope that future leaders will prioritise the well-being and progress of our community.”
The Krugersdorp News approached the municipality for comment, however, no feedback was given at the time of publication.
Trump added that no councillor can provide insight into this matter as the previous administration is not part of the current leadership in Mogale City. As a result, the DA is not privy to the discussions or decisions being made, and cannot confirm whether this topic is even being addressed.
“Our knowledge is limited to our previous tenure and initiatives, and we cannot speak to the current administration’s plans or actions.”
