Expropriation Act to Be Used to Reclaim Hijacked Buildings in Johannesburg, Says Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa Pushes for the Expropriation Act to Address Urban Decay and Hijacked Buildings in Johannesburg

Expropriation Act to Reclaim Hijacked Buildings in Johannesburg: A Bold Move by Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has recently emphasized the urgent need to fully implement the Expropriation Act to tackle the escalating urban decay in Johannesburg. During his supervisory visit to Gauteng, which coincided with several G20 meetings in the city, Ramaphosa expressed his concerns regarding the deteriorating conditions in Johannesburg, particularly focusing on hijacked buildings and crumbling infrastructure. This move comes as part of a broader effort by the government to revitalize the city and address pressing issues such as crime, homelessness, and unsafe urban environments.

Addressing Urban Decay with the Expropriation Act

The Expropriation Act, which has stirred debate since its inception, is now seen as a crucial tool in reclaiming hijacked, abandoned, and underutilized buildings in Johannesburg. According to Ramaphosa, the law would enable the government to take possession of properties that have been neglected or are being misused, with a focus on converting them into useful spaces such as housing or commercial areas.

“The Expropriation Act allows us to take abandoned or hijacked buildings, even without compensation where necessary, and repurpose them for public good,” said Ramaphosa. “We aim to provide accommodation for our people with dignity and revitalize the city.”

Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Sihle Zikalala, echoed the president’s sentiments, stating that the act would fast-track the process of urban renewal in Johannesburg. He emphasized that abandoned government buildings, as well as private properties that are illegally occupied, would be reclaimed by the state and, where necessary, repurposed for social housing, student accommodation, or commercial use.

Tackling Crime Through Reclaimed Buildings

One of the key concerns related to hijacked buildings is their use for illegal activities, including drug trafficking and harbouring criminals. Zikalala assured the public that these properties would be reclaimed to restore security and order to the city. “By repossessing these buildings, we will ensure that criminal activities are eradicated, and legitimate occupants can occupy these spaces,” he said.

In line with this, the government has committed to addressing the challenges posed by unregistered individuals occupying these spaces, while also providing alternative accommodation to prevent the displacement of vulnerable residents.

A Public-Private Partnership for Urban Renewal

While expropriation will remain a central strategy, Zikalala emphasized the importance of collaboration with the private sector to maximize the impact of urban renewal efforts. By offering state-owned properties on long-term leases for renovation and development, the government hopes to attract private investment that will both upgrade the city’s infrastructure and benefit the public.

“The private sector will play a key role in rejuvenating Johannesburg. Through the asset optimization strategy, we will invite private companies to help us turn these properties into vibrant spaces,” Zikalala explained.

The Road Ahead for Johannesburg

Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero confirmed that the city is already making strides in reclaiming hijacked buildings. With over 400 hijacked buildings in the city, the municipality has secured 12 court orders for repossession, with plans for further action under the Expropriation Act. Despite these efforts, Morero acknowledged that finding alternative accommodation for displaced individuals remains a challenge, which has slowed down the process.

With mounting pressure to address these critical issues, the Expropriation Act promises to be a game-changer for Johannesburg’s future. As Ramaphosa and his government push forward with this initiative, the Expropriation Act could reshape the city’s urban landscape and provide much-needed housing solutions for its residents.

A New Chapter for Johannesburg’s Urban Landscape

The Expropriation Act represents a decisive step towards tackling Johannesburg’s urban decay. By reclaiming hijacked and abandoned buildings, the government hopes to restore the city’s vibrancy and ensure better living conditions for its residents. While the debate surrounding the law’s impact continues, one thing is clear: Johannesburg is set for significant change, and the Expropriation Act will play a pivotal role in that transformation.

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Also read: President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Oversight Visit to Gauteng: Strengthening Service Delivery Through the District Development Model

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