A family from Tlholoe Village, in Lebotlwane, says that they are living in difficult conditions after the house project started by the Moretele Local Municipality was left unfinished.
Paulina Mhlongo, a mother caring for a child with special needs, said the municipality began building a five-room house for her family in March 2026.
However, construction reportedly stopped in April, leaving the house without a roof, floor, or plastering. She explained that the unfinished house has become a source of stress rather than relief.
The family continues to live in a shack that leaks when it rains and becomes extremely cold, conditions that she says negatively affect her child’s health. Mhlongo said she has repeatedly tried to contact municipal officials for assistance, but has received no response.
According to her, messages sent to some officials are read, but she is left on “blue ticks” without any feedback.
She also claims that several promises were made to support her family, including transport for hospital visits, employment opportunities, groceries, and assistance for her child, who requires ongoing medical care . However, she says the only groceries she received were in February 2026.
The family is appealing to the municipality to complete the house before the rainy season worsens their living conditions.
Mhlongo hopes the project will be finalized so that the family can finally move into a safe and dignified homeIn response, Moretele Local Municipality said the project has not been abandoned.
Municipal officials explained that the budget was intended for an affordable house, but a larger structure was built.
They added that most of the construction work has been completed and that roofing is the main outstanding task.
The municipality also indicated that support regarding groceries, a wheelchair donation, and other assistance has been provided.
Despite these assurances, the Mhlongo family continues to wait for the house to be completed and hopes to move in before the end of the year.
