The living conditions at Madala Hostel in Alexandra continue to worsen; residents are exposed to inhumane and unsanitary conditions.
During the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) oversight inspection of the hostel, we discovered that the deterioration of the structure and the living conditions had accelerated since our last visit six months ago.
The wrenching stench of accumulated sewerage, blocked drains, and heaps of rubbish indicates that the Provincial Government and the City of Johannesburg have abandoned these residents.
Furthermore, the hostel is in a state of disrepair. The windows are broken, and the ceiling on the one section that was destroyed by fire some years ago remains in a state of disrepair.
See photos here, here, here and here.
It is disappointing that the temporary structures adjacent to the hostel are complete and standing empty.
It is unacceptable that our residents are forced to live in these conditions while temporary containers to house them have been standing empty for the last five years.
The DA demands immediate intervention from Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi to improve the living conditions at the Madala hostel. We will also table questions in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL) to determine plans that the provincial government has in place to improve the living conditions of these neglected residents.
The DA has a plan to ensure access to dignified housing for all Gauteng residents desperate for housing and ensure that they have access to basic services. This can only happen by voting for the DA in next year’s general elections.