By Tony Mabizela – DA Councillor in Govan Mbeki Local Municipality
-Govan Mbeki has failed to prioritise the removal of asbestos roofs in Embalenhle.
-Elderly occupants of these houses are exposed to lung diseases.
-We call on the Executive Mayor to conduct an oversight visit to this area.
29 September 2026
Release: Immediate
The DA in Govan Mbeki calls on the Executive Mayor, Nhlakanipho Zuma, to conduct an oversight visit to asbestos roof RDP houses in Mandela Section, Embalenhle.In March 2023, the DA tabled a motion calling on the municipality to prioritise the removal of asbestos roofs in this area.
This motion was adopted, and the municipality agreed that they would engage the provincial government and get this process underway.
Recently, officials from the municipality contacted the DA regarding the conditions of these houses. However, there is still no clear indication as to when the process to remove the asbestos roofs will commence.
Residents of this community are still subjected to leaking roofs as the dilapidated asbestos roofs offer no protection, and there is no communication from the municipality. Currently, these roofs are no longer in a good condition as they are cracked and some parts have detached from the building structure.
Concerningly, in some houses, residents have put bricks on the roofs so that it can remain intact. Most of these houses are occupied by elderly people. The state of these houses is exposing them to lung diseases amongst others.
The removal of these roofs was meant to bring dignity to these families. However, under the incompetent ANC government, this has not been the case, instead, it has been an undignifying experience for many occupants of these low cost houses.
We urge residents of Mandela Section to take note of these shortcomings ahead of the upcoming Local Government Election. The DA is the only party capable of delivering quality housing to the residents of this area.
The DA will continue to strive for improved housing for the people of Embalenhle. Proper housing should not only be reserved for politically connected people, but should be accessible to everyone deserving.
For media enquiries:
Tony Mabizela
DA Councillor Govan Mbeki Local Municipality
072 590 4934