The City of Johannesburg Speaker of Council Vasco da Gama met with the elderly people of Yeoville to listen to some of the concerns they have.
The Speaker said the meeting was to afford the elderly an opportunity to engage with the City to ensure that their voice is also heard. Among other concerns raised by the elderly is lack of accommodation, health issues, and safety in Yeoville.
They also claimed that there were many cases of property hijackings, which resulted in some old people being homeless.
“The demand for accommodation and provision of RDP houses for the elderly cannot be overemphasised as most of them have been tenants for many years,” said Da Gama.
“There are many illegal churches mushrooming in the area and illegal taverns, which cause noise pollution. This had a negative impact on their well-being. Drugs continue to be a problem in Yeoville. The elderly complained that the drug lords were working with the police and were not arrested.
“They are concerned that assistance from SAPS was not sufficient. Representatives from the SAPS said they have joint operations with security companies and JMPD. They assured the elderly that they are not working with criminals.”
Da Gama expressed deep concern that not enough was being done to remedy the situation. He pleaded with SAPS and JMPD to enhance their efforts and visibility in the area to protect the elderly.
He promised to speak to various departments to address the concerns of the residents.
“I will vigorously follow up with the relevant departments of the City of Johannesburg and all stakeholders who committed to deliver service. I am going to come back personally to check on the progress.”
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