Residents of Tshunyane village are growing increasingly frustrated as 34 incomplete RDP houses, some built as early as 2024, stand roofless and deteriorating. Despite being allocated homes years ago, many beneficiaries are still living in makeshift structures, with some waiting for over 13 years for the government to fulfill its promises.
The North West Human Settlements Department has announced that a new contractor will be appointed by the end of July 2025 to complete the stalled project. However, for residents like 52-year-old Anna Monsu, the delays have taken a severe toll.
“I was allocated a house years ago, but I still live in a shack with my five children,” Monsu said. “We were promised proper homes, but nothing has changed.”
Another resident, 69-year-old William, shared his struggles, saying, “Life has been hard all these years waiting for our RDP houses. The government keeps making promises, but we see no progress.”
Concerns have also been raised about missing funds and unfulfilled commitments. Some residents allege that money meant for the project has not been accounted for, leaving them questioning the government’s transparency.
The North West Department of Human Settlements acknowledged the delays, attributing them to an expired contractor database, which has hindered the appointment of service providers.
“We have prepared to go on a public tender and anticipate appointing a contractor by the end of July,” a department spokesperson said. “We are committed to ensuring the project is completed.”
However, for the residents of Tshunyane, patience is wearing thin as they continue to endure harsh living conditions while waiting for the homes they were promised over a decade ago.
