Public Protector inspects another multimillion-rand 'white elephant' in Kimberley

THE PUBLIC Protector this week inspected numerous cracks, various structural defects and suspect electrical wiring at the Homevale satellite fire station as part of its investigation into the alleged mismanagement of public funds, maladministration and improper conduct. 

Public Protector Northern Cape representative Mlungisi Khanya noted that the building posed an occupational and health hazard as sections of the property could collapse at any time. 

"The walls are peeling and there are cracks in the walls and floors. An air conditioner was stolen and the main gate is not working. Sol Plaatje Municipality must appoint an engineer to assess whether the building can be repaired, taking into account the soil that is unsuitable for construction," said Khanya.

He stated that the investigation was expected to be concluded by the end of the year. 

"We are investigating whether the procurement of the fire truck that was purchased for R10 million was market-related, as well as the awarding of the R17.8 million tender to construct the building.”

Construction of the fire station began in 2019, with local residents hopeful it would bring much-needed jobs and improve fire response in the area. However, the building has since been abandoned and the site is now overgrown with weeds, with concerns raised that snakes such as Cape cobras are nesting in the tall grass.

The DA lodged a formal complaint with the Public Protector in 2024 regarding the R17 million structure, flagging shoddy workmanship and escalating costs. The structure, which was meant to be completed in 2020, was built on marshy soil, resulting in a sinking foundation and widespread cracking - some of which has been poorly patched with plaster.

Despite being officially launched by Northern Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul in 2021, the station has never been operational due to the structural defects.

Meanwhile, the R10 million fire truck that was intended for the satellite station is currently in service at the Kimberley Fire Station after undergoing repairs.

Sol Plaatje Municipality spokesperson Thabo Mothibi said that the vehicle was recently used to extinguish the fire at the St Patrick’s CBC hostel and was also stationed at the Diamond Oval during the Diamonds and Dorings music festival as part of disaster management standby.

He added that the municipality was co-operating fully with the Public Protector’s investigation.

Mothibi explained that the building was never signed off, as they refused to take occupation of the building due to the structural defects. 

“An independent geotechnical and structural report was commissioned and tabled before the Safety and Security Committee.” 

He indicated that approximately R1.4 million would be recovered from the contractor.

“The repairing of the defects will be funded from the recouped monies. The matter will also be taken up with the professional body concerned. As previously stated, we have already set in motion the consequence management processes,” Mothibi stated.