STATE-OWNED PROPERTY HANDED OVER FOR SOCIAL USE IN MALMESBURY

Article by Maanea Maselesele, Pictures by Mahlogonolo Makwela

11 July 2025

As part of government’s continued commitment to unlocking public assets for public good, the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson, yesterday handed over a previously underutilised state-owned property in Malmesbury, Western Cape.

The handover which supports efforts to repurpose unused state buildings to address social development priorities, took place ahead of the Department’s Budget Vote. The property will be converted into a support centre for victims of drug and substance abuse, responding to urgent community needs and contributing to government’s broader anti-substance abuse programme.

The facility was officially received by the Western Cape MEC for Social Development, Johan Jaco Londt, who welcomed the initiative as a critical addition to the province’s support services. “This facility will go a long way in supporting our province’s response to substance abuse. Through strong partnerships between national and provincial departments, we are able to deliver meaningful change and restore dignity in affected communities,” said MEC Londt.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister Macpherson reaffirmed government’s policy position to utilise state assets to support social infrastructure. “This handover demonstrates the Department’s resolve to transform state properties into assets that meet the needs of our people. We are not just handing over buildings, we are creating spaces of opportunity, care and hope,” said Minister Macpherson.

The Minister was accompanied by the Department’s Chief Director for Gender, Dr Mveleli Gqwede, who outlined the planned use of the facility and its importance in tackling gendered aspects of substance abuse. “This centre will serve as a critical point of support for those affected by addiction, especially women and youth. It reflects our collective responsibility to provide safe and enabling environments for recovery,” said Dr Gqwede.

The handover was attended by senior officials from all spheres of government, representatives from the Social Development and Health sectors, and local community stakeholders.