Pretoria – The City of Tshwane says it is awaiting an application for settlement from the community of Kleinfontein, situated east of Pretoria.
This emerged today during mayor Kgosientso Ramokgopa’s visit to the area.
The gated community, which covers almost 800 hectares, has been in the spotlight following reports that Kleinfontein was a racially exclusive community.
The Tshwane mayor’s visit to Kleinfontein was to get a first-hand account and to interact with the local community.
The residents have declared the area a town separate from the City of Tshwane.
During Ramokgopa’s visit, the chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Jan Groenewald, explained that the criteria to live in Kleinfontein were based on language, cultural, traditional and religious beliefs.
Groenewald denied that it was based on race.
“We are prepared to cooperate with the authorities should the need arise. The Constitution allows everyone to practice their culture, tradition and religious beliefs,” he said.
Kleinfontein, with about 1 000 residents, has its own primary school, shops and a game reserve. They also draw their own water from a nearby dam. It even has an informal settlement for the less fortunate.
Speaking to the media after being given a tour of the area, Ramokgopa said it was important for people to appreciate the history of their country.
“The city has not come to close this community. We are here to have a conversation with you,” he said.
Ramokgopa emphasised the importance of adhering to the country’s Constitution.
“The Constitution is the supreme law of this country,” he said, adding that the Constitution does allow people to practice their culture.
He, however, cautioned that people should not undermine other people’s rights and “hide behind the Constitution”.
According to the City of Tshwane, Kleinfontein has been in existence for 21 years. – SAnews.gov.za
