R64 MILLION COVID-19 SHACK PROJECT IN MAMELODI TURNS INTO BROTHELS-FOSA

By Tebogo Mashilompane
National Leader of Forum for South Africa (FOSA)

The Forum for South Africa (FOSA) has learned with deep concern about the R64 million project initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic for residents of the Mamelodi Hostel, east of Pretoria, which remains incomplete to this day.

The temporary housing structures originally intended to accommodate hostel residents were constructed without proper consultation with the affected community.

Two contractors, Selby Construction and Gorogang Construction, were appointed to execute the project.

However, both failed to complete the work, with Gorogang reportedly abandoning the site without paying workers.

As a result, the incomplete shacks have now been illegally occupied and converted into brothels, operating as centers for prostitution and criminal activities.

This has sparked outrage among nearby residents, including Kingsley Hostel (Block 2) dwellers, who have reported a sharp rise in crime in the area.

Community leader Apson Makaung condemned the project, calling it “a looting strategy disguised as a COVID-19 relief initiative.”

Makaung added that the R64 million used for this failed project could have built proper, dignified homes for hostel residents if it had been managed transparently.

FOSA demands that former Minister of Human Settlements, Lindiwe Sisulu, under whose leadership this project was initiated, must come forward and account for how public funds were used.

The people of Mamelodi deserve answers and justice.

FOSA calls on the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements, the City of Tshwane, and national oversight bodies to urgently:

1. Investigate the alleged misuse and mismanagement of funds.

2. Hold all contractors and officials accountable.

3. Restore the area by building proper housing for residents.

4. Work with law enforcement to shut down illegal activities at the site.

This project represents another painful example of how corruption and neglect continue to rob South Africans of their dignity, safety, and right to decent housing.