In a powerful moment of restoration and redress, the Eastern Cape MEC for Human Settlements, Siphokazi Lusithi, recently handed over a newly built home to Nothozamile Funeka Ngonzi, a 62-year-old farm worker and mother of four, as part of the Komga Zone 10 Phase 1 Land Restitution Programme in the Great Kei Local Municipality.
Ms. Ngonzi, who spent years living in a shack while working on nearby farms, received her house under a targeted initiative aimed at improving the lives of unemployed, low-income farm workers in rural communities. The project, which falls under the Amatole District Municipality, is set to deliver 570 quality housing units across seven farms and villages in the area. It forms part of the Land Restitution Programme, which seeks to return land and dignity to historically dispossessed communities. By focusing on rural households often left out of mainstream development, the project reinforces government’s commitment to inclusive and equitable human settlements.
The MEC highlighted the significance of the project in addressing historical injustices and promoting dignity for marginalized communities. “We chose Ms. Ngonzi’s house as the anchor house because her story represents the very heart of this programme resilience, redress, and dignity for the marginalised. It marks the beginning of meaningful transformation for this area,” said the MEC Siphokazi Lusithi.
This milestone marks a significant step towards addressing the historical injustices faced by farm workers and their families, who have long been denied access to basic services and dignified living conditions. The project’s focus on integrated development and community empowerment is expected to have a lasting impact on the lives of the beneficiaries.
“I never thought I would ever own a decent home. I have worked on farms all my life, raising my children under difficult conditions. I am grateful to the department and everyone who made this possible. “Said Ms Ngozi
The Komga Zone 10 housing project is not only delivering infrastructure but is also a beacon of youth empowerment. In alignment with Youth Month 2025 and its theme, “Skills for the Changing World Empowering Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation”, the project has empowered 75 young people through on-site skills development and job creation. These young participants were trained and employed during various phases of construction, gaining technical experience that will position them for future employment in the built environment sector.
The Department of Human Settlements continues to prioritise integrated, inclusive development, with a focus on historically neglected rural communities. Through projects like Komga Zone 10, government reaffirms its commitment to spatial transformation, economic upliftment, and social justice.