Two years later, Rabie Ridge Community Hall and library re-opened
Ward 80 and Ward 110 councillors Melody Hlatshwayo and Angie Mphaho urge community members to refrain from destroying public service infrastructure.
Rabie Ridge Community Hall and Library entrance was packed to the rafters with community members who anticipated the re-opening of the community hall and the library.
The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) was at the forefront of refurbishing the hall and the library at a cost of R3.3m.
The reopening of these community spaces was held on February 12 led by Community Development MMC, Lubabalo Magwentshu, and MMC for Development Planning, Eunice Mgcina. Ward 80 and 110 councillors Melody Hlatshwayo and Angie Mphaho respectively were also in attendance.
JDA acting CEO Siyabonga Genu said the refurbishment projects encompassed a comprehensive scope of works aimed at enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of the community hall and library.
“The completion of this project underscores the agency’s commitment to fostering inclusive development and creating spaces that foster community engagement and growth. The reopening of the Rabie Ridge Community Hall is another example of how the JDA, with a focus on sustainable development, is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all residents through the provision of essential infrastructure and the promotion of economic growth,” said Genu.
The two buildings were closed in about March 2021 to undergo renovations, however, due to some shoddy work by the first contractor, led to the delays. The contractor’s contract was ultimately terminated and another contractor was appointed.
Mgcina said the renovations and refurbishments of the Rabie Ridge Community Hall and Library reflect the city’s commitment to efficiently delivering sustainable social and economic infrastructure projects. “Furthermore, the projects have actively promoted economic empowerment and supported local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) by creating employment opportunities within the community. A total of seven local SMMEs and 10 local labourers were engaged in the project, contributing to the economic upliftment of the area,” said Mgcina.
The Rabie Ridge Library was first opened in 1991 and the hall has long served as a cornerstone of community activity, and hosting of events ranging from meetings and church services to recreational activities and pension payouts.
Hlatshwayo and Mphaho shared the same sentiments that this marks a new chapter in fostering community engagement and empowerment.
“Alongside the community hall, the library has been a hub of learning and knowledge-sharing, providing essential resources and educational opportunities to residents,” they said in their opening and closing speeches.
Hlatshwayo and Mphaho concluded that its vital to recognising the importance of these facilities, urging the community members to refrain from destroying them.
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