A 87-year-old pensioner from Mokasa village near Taung had almost given up hope of owning decent house until recently when the MEC for Local Government and Human Settlements, Galaletsang Gaolaolwe visited him at his home after a plea from a local ward councillor.
Ben Saku stayed in a dilapidated house with no proper windows to shield him during freezing winter season. The house also had no proper furniture including cooking utensils.
Saku said he relied on wood fire to cook outside throughout all seasons. He stays with his son, who is unemployed.
“My son makes a living by selling peanuts. However the business is seasonal. I was very grateful to receive a house and I wish my wife was still alive to share the good news,” he said.
Mosipidi Semanu, 46, was another beneficiary. Semanu stays with his partner in a mud house.
“My house was previously been destroyed by heavy rains. The other side has been replaced by worn out sink sheets. Two of our children passed away and we currently stay with our only surviving child who is unemployed. We survive on old age grant only,” Semanu said.
MEC Gaolaolwe said: “Our officials within the department will work round the clock to ensure that the elderly get first preference.”
The Guardian 