The Gauteng Department of Human Settlements has strongly rejected allegations of corruption surrounding the controversial R24 million Evaton Ablution and Sanitation Project, describing claims made by the Democratic Alliance (DA) as “misleading,” “politically motivated,” and unsupported by evidence.
The response follows recent criticism by Kingsol Chabalala and the Democratic Alliance, who accused the government of overspending and possible corruption linked to the construction of sanitation facilities in Evaton.
Department Defends Sanitation Project
According to the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements, the project delivered 30 fully equipped ablution facilities across Wards 41, 42 and 44 in Evaton as part of efforts to replace unsafe pit toilets with dignified sanitation infrastructure.
The Department said each facility includes:
- Three male toilets
- Three female toilets
- Urinals
- Three male showers
- Three female showers
Officials stressed that the structures are not simply “toilets,” but complete ablution facilities designed to improve sanitation conditions for residents living in underserved communities.
The project is estimated to benefit between 240 and 300 households, with each facility serving approximately 8 to 10 households.
Breakdown of the R24 Million Cost
The Department revealed that the total project cost amounted to R24 479 988.06.
According to officials:
- R1 million was allocated to the Professional Resource Team responsible for planning, design, project management and construction oversight.
- R23.4 million went towards construction and civil engineering work.
Authorities said the project scope included:
- Sewer pipeline installation
- Water connections
- Relocation of underground electrical and water services
- Demolition of old concrete structures
- Construction and installation of the ablution facilities
The Department argued that comparing the project to the retail price of prefabricated toilet structures is misleading because it ignores the extensive infrastructure work completed on site.
One Facility Still Awaiting Sewer Connection
The Department confirmed that 29 out of the 30 ablution facilities are fully operational and connected to the sewer system.
One remaining facility at Adams Road in Evaton could not be connected due to access challenges involving a nearby church property where the closest sewer manhole is located.
Officials said an alternative sewer solution is currently being implemented.
Procurement Process Was Lawful, Says Department
The Gauteng Department of Human Settlements also dismissed allegations of irregular procurement, stating that the project was awarded through an approved panel of contractors in line with the Public Finance Management Act and Treasury regulations.
The Department further stated that it is unaware of any formal investigation into the project but welcomed any scrutiny of procurement and implementation processes.
Municipality Responsible for Maintenance
Government officials said the sanitation facilities were formally handed over to beneficiaries in 2024, with attendance by ward councillors and members of the Evaton Development Forum.
A Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Department and Emfuleni Local Municipality reportedly outlines maintenance responsibilities.
Under the agreement:
- The Department handles defect repairs for six months after handover.
- The Municipality becomes responsible for ongoing maintenance thereafter.
Phase 2 Already Underway
Despite the controversy, the Department announced that Phase 2 of the programme has already begun and will deliver an additional 150 ablution facilities in Evaton.
The expansion is expected to benefit between 1 200 and 1 500 more households and is scheduled for completion by May 2028. Officials said the programme forms part of broader efforts to restore dignity and improve sanitation infrastructure in Gauteng’s informal settlements
