A sense of relief and celebration filled Drieziek 4 on Saturday, 13 June, when the African Transformation Movement (ATM) handed over a completed house to Mr Benjamin, who had been living in an unfinished structure for the past two years.
The initiative was driven by ATM members together with surrounding community stakeholders who came together after identifying the unfinished RDP house and the difficult living conditions at the site. Through coordinated efforts and donations sourced by the movement, the house was finally completed and made livable.
Ward 4 ATM councillor candidate Khonzaphi Mbele said the project was initiated after the team discovered that the house had been left incomplete for a long time and urgent intervention was needed.
“We saw that the RDP house was not yet done, so we went out to look for donations. We managed to get support through ATM, and that is how the house was finally completed,” said Mbele.
ATM leader Vuyolwethu Zungula used the occasion to reflect on service delivery challenges at local government level, saying stronger involvement from councillors and mayors could prevent situations like this from happening.
“If we had properly functioning councilors and mayors who are truly involved in their communities, situations like this would not be left unresolved for years. Communities should not have to rely on intervention from outside leaders to get basic needs addressed,”Zungula added.
Ntate Mollo, founder of Tau Dia Rora, said his organisation has formed an alliance with ATM, adding that the partnership is based on shared values including cultural roots and community upliftment. He expressed hope that the collaboration will grow and deliver even more impact in future.
A local community member said the Drieziek community feels grateful to see organisations stepping in to assist where needed. She added that she was especially pleased with the work done by ATM, saying it has brought positive change to the area.
The handover marked a moment of dignity restored for Mr Benjamin and highlighted the impact of community driven action in addressing housing challenges in the area.
