BuaNews (Tshwane)
Siboniso Ntuli
7 August 2008
Pietermaritzburg — The provincial Department of Public Works is embarking on a project to clear all government properties in KwaZulu-Natal, bringing numerous job opportunities to the unemployed in the province.
The Izandla Ziyagezana Project, meaning "hands help each other", is aimed at addressing the challenge of poverty in the province.
MEC for Public Works Lydia Johnson said: "One of the core businesses of our department is the management of government properties which includes vacant land.
"Given the fact that some of this land is within our communities, we felt that it was crucial to ensure that it does not pollute areas or become overgrown," said Ms Johnson.
She further said they had resolved to "hit two birds with one stone" and ensure the vacant land is cleared by local residents thereby creating jobs.
"The government is trying by all means to use labour absorbing methods in its projects, with the purpose of creating as many jobs as possible for the people.
"We hope that this project will grow and be sustainable. The communities cooperation is therefore critical in this regard," said MEC Johnson.
One of the beneficiaries, Zesuliwe Mbeje from Harmmersdale, told BuaNews that she has been struggling to find employment after the death of her husband in 2005.
She said she was more optimistic that her life would change for the better with the project.
"I will be able to save some of the money, so that I can buy the tombstone for my husband," said Ms Mbeje.
The department appealed to the communities in the province to work with them and protect government properties. "It is our responsibility to ensure that our buildings are not turned into white elephants," said MEC Johnson.
Due to the increased number of people participating in programme their campaign to encourage community participation and involvement was becoming a reality.
The department also said for development initiatives to make an impact in the lives of the communities both rural and urban municipalities, it must be communities themselves who play a leading role in their development.
Another beneficiary, Msizi Gwala who completed matric last year, would now be able to further his studies.
"Since the beginning of the year I've been doing the odd jobs, to save for my school fees next year. Up to now I haven't saved much. I hope this employment will help me a lot," said Mr Gwala.
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