Ntunda Community Celebrates New R28 Million Social Amenities
By: Nokulunga Lebambo
Nkomazi- Residents of Ntunda in Nkomazi received a major boost yesterday when Mpumalanga Premier, Mandla Ndlovu officially handed over the newly built Ntunda Social Amenities. A multi-million-rand development aimed at improving services and community life in the rural area.The handover took place just days before the launch of the national 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, a context Premier Ndlovu said made the occasion meaningful. “Improving rural communities is something worth celebrating.
This is how we address challenges, not only through speeches, but through action,” he said.The project includes two major structures:A modern community hall, andA fully equipped early childhood development (ECD) centre.The community hall, which can seat approximately 600 people, features a fitted kitchen, five offices and a boardroom, change rooms, ablution facilities, an entrance lobby and a stage. It is designed to serve as a multipurpose venue that can host government services, youth activities, weddings, meetings and community programmes.
The childcare centre includes three classrooms, a medical room, sickbay, kitchen, four storerooms, offices, a waiting area, reception and an outdoor play area. Both facilities are secured with clear-view mesh fencing.The combined construction cost of the amenities is R28.6 million (excluding VAT and contingencies).Premier Ndlovu encouraged the municipality to use the new facilities to generate sustainable income by hiring out the hall for functions. “This is a chance to create opportunities, especially for young people,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of proper early childhood development. “We must employ qualified ECD teachers. We dare not risk the future of our children,” he said.The project created 105 job opportunities, including 39 adult men, 54 male youth, 10 female youth and two adult women.A significant highlight of the project’s corporate social investment initiative was the building of a two-bedroom house for a family of 14 by the contractor. The house includes an open-plan kitchen with fittings, a bathroom with a toilet, shower and bathtub, and a septic tank.
The contractor also donated two pressure pumps to the local clinic to improve water access and healthcare services.To address electricity challenges, the premier confirmed that arrangements have been made with Eskom and that in the meantime, the new facilities are fitted with solar panels, ensuring they remain functional.Speaking directly to residents, Ndlovu urged them to protect the new amenities. “Let even those still to be born benefit from this facility. That will only happen if we take good care of it,” he said. The Premier concluded by reaffirming government’s commitment to rural development: “Today’s event shows what we mean when we say KuBhunya Lithuli eMpumalanga.”
