Gauteng’s Department of Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation (SACR) has spent over R380 million on three heritage monuments since their construction. Sadly, residents are not benefiting from this significant investment, as the monuments remain non-operational.
In a written response from Matome Chiloane, the MEC of Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation (SACR) indicates that the department has spent R380 128 842.98 million since the construction of the Boipatong Monument, the Kagiso Memorial, and the Women’s Living Heritage Monument. As discovered during our Heritage Month Campaign, these Gauteng heritage sites are not fully functional due to incomplete construction and maintenance work by service providers, as well as a lack of occupancy certificates, among a myriad of issues.
The funds were distributed as follows:
Boipatong Memorial: R51 809 219 570
Kagiso Memorial: R54 067 181 580
Women’s Living Heritage Monument: R274 252 441 740
See reply here.
The funds have been utilised for the operations and construction of the three heritage monuments, which are currently non-operational.
The DA fully recognises the need to preserve these heritage sites, which are a bastion of our history. However, we find it concerning that millions are spent on them, yet they are inaccessible to the public.
The DA has consistently raised concerns regarding unnecessary delays by the department in completing these monuments, which prevent the youth from accessing upskilling opportunities and empowerment.
We have emphasised that heritage facilities can enhance local tourism, attract investments, and create jobs in our townships and cities.
Despite our repeated calls, the department continues to overlook its costly inefficiencies and has taken minimal steps to ensure these monuments are fully operational. In a challenging economic climate where resources are scarce, this represents a significant waste.
The DA demands that the Gauteng MEC for Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation (SACR), Matome Chiloane, take immediate action to ensure these monuments are fully operational. We demand an audit of the current status quo, a detailed plan for these monuments, and delivery of services to our people.
A DA government would have ensured that these three monuments are fully operational and properly maintained, providing real value to our province.
The DA will work tirelessly to ensure these monuments benefit Gauteng communities instead of standing as white elephants.