Polokwane Municipality to Formalise Juju Valley
The Polokwane Municipality has announced its intention to formalise the Juju Valley informal settlement in Seshego, a community that has been growing on private property along Matlala Road in the Capricorn District.
The area, which has remained unoccupied for many years, is home to residents who have constructed makeshift homes, despite previous warnings from the municipality.
Over the years, the municipality had cautioned land grabbers to cease occupying the property, stressing that violators faced the risk of imprisonment and the demolition of their structures.
However, following a council meeting on Wednesday, Mayor John Mpe revealed a significant shift in the municipality’s approach.
The council has decided to purchase the private land, a move that will enable the residents of Juju Valley to receive essential municipal services, including water, sanitation, electricity, and more.
“Council has resolved to engage private landowners in negotiations for the acquisition of land occupied by informal settlers in Juju Valley. While we are committed to finding sustainable housing solutions, we strongly condemn illegal land occupation,” Mayor Mpe stated.
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He also emphasized the importance of following proper channels for land acquisition and warned against illegal land grabs.
“We urge all residents to participate in formal consultation processes, as disorderly land grabs will not be tolerated. Those who unlawfully occupy land will also face strict legal consequences.”
The municipality remains focused on integrating all communities into Polokwane’s broader economic and service framework.
Mpe reiterated that the city’s goal is to uphold the rule of law and ensure sustainable urban planning while addressing housing challenges in the region.
“We are committed to finding sustainable housing solutions, but illegal land occupation will not be tolerated. We urge residents to participate in formal consultations as disorderly land grabs will face legal consequences,” the mayor concluded.
Polokwane’s decision to engage with private landowners signals a shift towards resolving land occupation issues while ensuring adherence to urban planning principles and municipal law.