The lives of 18 families who lived near the Total Petroport Magalies Filling Station - between Brits and Rustenburg outside Pretoria on the N4 freeway - have improved after the construction of a freeway near their homes.
Total SA has relocated the families from the Skierlik informal settlement to a nearby area with better living conditions. The families were moved from the N4 freeway to a new section that they have since named Selosecha to make way for the construction of a carriageway and off-ramps near the service station. A borehole has been made available for them, as well as a vegetable garden and a mini orchard. The families were also assisted to improve the makeshift structures - mostly corrugated iron shacks - that they had before. The new area was fenced off and they are also due to have a day- care centre for their children.
Most importantly, the families have said they are happy that they have been moved further away from the noisy freeway, and can also apply for electricity connections, which was not possible previously. One of the residents, Dolly Thaba, aged 73, said she was grateful that the road had been developed, which had led to their relocation and improved lives.
The ANC welcomes such partnerships in improving the lives of the vulnerable and disadvantaged. I thank you, Speaker.