DPWI’s MORNING OF ACCOUNTABILITY AND HEALING IN GEORGE

Article by Tseke Masemola, Pictures by Caroline Mokotedi

21 July 2025

It was a significant morning at the Protea Hotel, in George, when the DPWI Minister Dean Macpherson led a morning session with the community of George, Cape Town. Minister Macpherson has returned to the town of George, to give feedback to the families of those who were fatally affected by the building that collapsed in 2024.

The Hotel on King George Drive brought together political leadership, industry regulators and affected families for a sincere, profound and informative engagement. The programme, led by the CEO of the Council of the Built Environment (CBE), Dr. Msizi Myeza, introduced various stakeholders, including the President of the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), Thembinkosi Madikane and the Chairperson of CBE Amelia Mtshali.

Dr. Myeza delivered the long-awaited Investigation Report on the collapsed building, presenting findings with empathy. He carefully explained the major infrastructural changes such as crippling columns and outdated construction methods. He described the exact reasons as to what led to the devastating tragedy, which identified 34 killed and 28 injured construction workers.

The Minister reiterated the Department’s commitment to justice, transformation and the safety of all South Africans, to ensure that this matter will never happen again. The report feedback was followed by a dialogue session with the families, allowing them to engage openly and honestly on the outcomes and implications of the report.

The congregation closed with a comprehensive media briefing chaired by Minister Macpherson, whereby he echoed the core findings from the report. He confirmed that the report will be made public and shared with relevant law enforcement authorities to ensure that justice is pursued and dignity is restored to the victims and their families. In addition, the senior leadership from DPWI, ECSA and CBE responded to question from the media, reaffirming their united stance on reforming the built environment sector, ensuring a stronger, safer South Africa.