DELMAS – Local Executive Mayor, Cllr Vusi Buda, welcomed the new facility and committed the municipality to its upkeep. “We take full responsibility for maintaining this facility and ensuring it benefits our people. The community hall will generate revenue through venue hire, while the childcare centre will offer a solid foundation for early childhood development,” Buda stated.
He was speaking at Botleng Extension 6 in Delmas, Victor Khanye Local Municipality, where Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu, alongside MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA), Speedy Mashilo, officially handed over state-of-the-art social amenities to the residents. The R17.3 million infrastructure, which includes a community hall with a 600-seater capacity and a childcare centre for 150 children to support Early Childhood Development (ECD), aims to improve access to essential services and foster social development in the township.
Speaking at the handover, Premier Ndlovu emphasised the government’s commitment to integrated human settlements that go beyond housing. “We are not just building houses; we are creating complete, sustainable communities. This facility will bring government services closer to the people, provide a safe space for children to learn, and offer a venue for social and economic activities,” said Ndlovu.
Speaking on the sidelines, a visibly impressed Premier Ndlovu expressed his surprise at the amount spent on constructing the two structures, commending the work done.
MEC Mashilo highlighted the economic and social benefits of the project, noting that 71 job opportunities were created during its construction. “This is more than just infrastructure. It is an investment in the future of this community. The hall will be used for public events, while the childcare centre will provide early learning opportunities for young children. These facilities will improve the quality of life in Botleng,” said Mashilo.
Community member Sipho Rumo expressed gratitude for the long-awaited facility, saying, “This will make a real difference in our lives. We finally have a proper venue for community gatherings, and our children now have a safe and structured learning environment.”
The project was handed over on the sidelines of the week-long Taking the Legislature to the People (TLP) programme. According to the main contractor, Themba Nyathi, owner of TSSN Carriers, a total of three sub-contractors benefited from the project.
