Twenty families living in desperate conditions in an old hospital at Garies in the Northern Cape face an uncertain future. The Department of Public Work who owns the building, says it will dispose of the property.
Residents say they have nowhere to go.
The dirty disused hospital has an overwhelming stench hangs in the air. However, for twenty desperate families this building is good enough to call home.
SABC News first highlighted their plight three months ago…
Many came from smaller towns in search of jobs and health care. “I don’t know where I will go. I don’t want to leave here because I’m here because it’s convenient,” said resident Jeanetta Tani. “I want a house, we have asked about getting a house so many times,” added another distraught resident Elsie Andrew.
Local authorities are assisting in the interim. The municipality says it will assist those who qualify for houses but a long term solution is needed.
“We must create jobs in all the towns so that people don’t have to come to Garies and seeking jobs in Garies – but if we create jobs in their areas they can work from their houses,” said Joseph Cloete of Kamiesberg Municipality
Public Works says it is still processing the property and will assist with alternative accommodation as required by law.
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