Speaker, a joint government and private-sector initiative has resulted in a R90-million village for vulnerable children, based on the operation Sukuma Sakhe model of integrated services.
The Lungisisa Indlela Village comprises houses with each house having a house mother or guardian who looks after a nuclear family that consists of up to six children per house. The project also fulfils many green and environmentally friendly standards, with most of the energy needs of the houses provided for through solar energy. The houses are fitted with gas cooking stoves and also the wonder-bag concept of cooking using an energy- saving technique.
The village also has a school which has begun with learners starting from Grade 0, and the eventual plan is to provide teaching up to Grade 12, which is in the pipeline. The village, once completed, will boast a multipurpose sports court, a clinic, a crche, a primary school and a secondary school to cater for the children.
Caring for vulnerable children is a government priority, and establishing such homes for children who have been left parentless and neglected ensures that future generations develop with a sound childhood and an upbringing of values, compassion, love and warmth. It is envisaged that similar projects will follow this same model. I thank you, hon Speaker. [Applause.]