Western Cape Human Settlements Minister Bonginkosi Madikizela will hand over 29 temporary structures to farmworkers in Geelhoutboom, approximately 20km outside George.

The farmworkers previously occupied run-down houses, with no access to electricity on the farm. The new structures provide better protection from bad weather elements, in addition to electricity for all houses on the farm. Residents also have access to water and other basic services.

Following a visit by Minister Madikizela to the Geelhoutboom Farm in early 2016, it was recognised that the condition of certain houses occupied by the farmworkers posed a huge safety risk from a structural point of view. Minister Madikizela instructed George Municipality, together with the Department, to assist with safer accommodation on the farm.

The Geelhoutboom project was made possible through a partnership between the Western Cape Department of Human Settlements, George Municipality, Eskom and the shareholders of Geelhoutboom Estates. The community and surrounding residents also formed an integral part of the partnership and the project.