Durban: Following a visit to the historic Ohlange Institute with the family of Dr. John Langalibalele Dube, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson announced the formation of a Special Technical Construction team to expedite the project's completion.
According to South African Government News Agency, Macpherson was accompanied by KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Mntomuhle Khawula, eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba, and KwaZulu-Natal National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Whip, Mzamo Billy. The Ohlange Institute, founded by Dr. Dube and his wife in 1901 and where former President Nelson Mandela cast his first democratic vote, has received over R33 million in investment since 2012 but has since fallen into disrepair.
The Minister stated that the special technical construction team, comprising members from the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure and the Independent Development Trust (IDT), will be tasked with developing a plan of action within two months to ensure the project's swift completion. He emphasized that completing the Ohlange Institute is crucial to ensuring that public assets contribute positively to the community rather than becoming neglected structures.
In highlighting the significance of the project, the Minister remarked that such initiatives are vital for honoring the past while South Africa aims for a better future. He declared that the time of incomplete Public Works and Infrastructure projects is ending, with a new focus on urgency, transparency, and accountability to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. This approach, he noted, is part of building a more effective department and a better South Africa.