Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has hailed the revitalised George Goch Hostel as proof that the province can restore dignity to residents living in neglected state accommodation, after touring newly upgraded sections of the Mens Hostel in George Goch earlier today.
Lesufi, joined by Human Settlements MEC Tasneem Motara and e-Government MEC Bonginkosi Dhlamini, inspected the site and met with residents and informal traders to assess progress and hear feedback firsthand. “The work that was done is very impressive. The hostel looks beautiful now, and i am relieved to see such progresss,” Lesufi said. He acknowledged that some work is still outstanding but said the transformation was already making a visible difference for families who have lived in poor conditions for years.From neglect to benchmark.
Premier Panyaza Lesufi alongside MEC Tasneem Motara and Mec Bonginkosi Dhlamini at the George Goch Mens Hostel. Picture by Mpho Khumalo
The George Goch project is being positioned as the model for Gauteng’s broader plan to upgrade dozens of aging hostels into safer, modern mixed-use community spaces. MEC Motara said her department would use George Goch as the benchmark for future upgrades across the province. “We are committed to completing the remaining work while ensuring contractors maintain quality standards,” she said.Residents told the delegation the upgrades had already improved daily life, pointing to cleaner surroundings, better safety, and a renewed sense of dignity. Many urged the province to replicate the same standard at other hostels.Beyond bricks and mortar.
MEC Dhlamini said the revitalisation must go beyond physical upgrades to include better access to government and digital services. “It’s heartwarming to see the changes. We regularly inspect facilities like these because people deserve decent living conditions and access to services that improve their quality of life,” Dhlamini said.During the walkabout, Lesufi spoke directly with residents about outstanding challenges, with the interactions described as warm and constructive.
Premier Panyaza Lesufi taking time to interact with resident at the George Goch Hostel. Picture by Mpho Khumalo
Residents welcomed the leadership and expressed optimism about the future of the development.Provincial officials said oversight visits would continue throughout the rollout to hold contractors accountable and keep the programme on track.
The hostel upgrade programme targets some of Gauteng’s oldest and most neglected state-owned accommodation. Success at George Goch could shape how quickly and effectively similar projects are delivered across the province
