PRETORIA, South Africa — Carwash owners and residents in the township of Mamelodi have halted the city of Tshwane’s plan to revitalize Mamelodi’s economy by building a pricey carwash, according to iol.co.za.
Mamelodi wash owners feel that city failed to consult them about the carwash plans and any impacts that may result, stated the article.
During the “State of the Capital Address,” Mayor Kgosientso Ramokgopa announced that the concept was one of Tshwane’s “efforts aimed at curbing unemployment,” the article continued.
Ramokgopa stated in the city’s budget speech for the 2015/16 financial year that R6.6 million (U.S. $539,804.69) had been allocated for the project, with the first facility planned for Mamelodi, reported the article.
Blessing Manale, city spokesman, explained in the article that residents were made aware of the carwash project during the “Integrated Development Plan” process, and that the community needs to understand that the aim of the carwash initiative was to have “a positive impact on the township’s economy and address the scourge of unemployment and poverty.”
“The project objective is to create work opportunities for the local community,” said Manale in the article. “This project will promote hygiene, income-generating opportunities, reduce water wastage, protect the environment and promote social cohesion.”
The city plans to continue with the construction of the carwash, noted the article.
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