GEORGE NEWS - Although Lidia Lituli received a serviced site and a structure in the Upgrading Informal Settlements Programme development from the George Municipality, she had to vacate her home to make room for her grown-up daughter and her family, who were without a roof over their heads.
Lituli moved back to the family shack she grew up in, which belongs to her mother who lives in another town. Lituli lives in the shack with eight children - her youngest daughter, aged six years, three grandchildren whose mothers are unable to look after them, and four other children, whose mother “gave them to me to look after”.
The Lituli family lives in a makeshift metal and plank house in Luxolo Street in Thembalethu. When it rains, the water pours into the house everywhere and there is hardly a dry place to be found. When George Herald's sister publication, Idinga arrived at Lituli’s house last week in the pouring rain, water had flooded her house and a cold wind blew through it while the children gathered around the log fire (imbawula).
Municipality a number of times, but my pleas fell on deaf ears,” said Lituli.
However, Chantel Edwards-Klose, media liaison officer for George Municipality, said the complainant received a serviced site and a structure in the Upgrading Informal Settlements Programme development, and subsequently decided to move to another site which belongs to her mother.
“She has rented out the original structure and site provided to her and is now allegedly claiming a second structure, which can unfortunately not be provided.
“Upon investigating the matter it was found that she was in the process of building her own structure,” Edwards-Klose said.
Lituli denied that she receives any money in lieu of rent from the family who lives in her municipal house. She reiterated that the shack she lives in belongs to her mother, and it is on behalf of her mother that she is requesting the municipality assistance.
“My mother would like to come and live here again, but it is unlivable in its current condition. Lituli blamed the poor state of her house for the health problems she has been experiencing, and said her children are also frequently ill.
“If I had a job, I would have fixed the house on my own but I currently receive a government grant, which I use to feed the children, as well as for other household essentials.
“My only plea is for the municipality to please assist us; we desperately need help, especially in these cold days,” said Lituli.
• Idinga urges the community of George to assist this family in any way to build them a new home. Anyone wishing to assist can call 071 934 7443 or 044 874 2424.
Lidia Lituli's house in Thembalethu, where she lives with eight children, is falling apart and does nothing to shield them from the harsh winter elements. Photos: Zolani Sinxo.
Young Ayabonga Lituli, one of eight children who live in this shack, stands at the door as the rain pours in.
ARTICLE AND PICTURES: ZOLANI SINXO, GEORGE HERALD JOURNALIST
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