The dignity of Dutywa housing beneficiaries has been restored when they received their title deeds from Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements MEC, Siphokazi Lusithi, today, 09 October 2024. The Department prioritizes the issuing of title deeds working together with municipalities in addressing the backlog and ensuring access to adequate housing and full homeownership.
“This handover event is not merely about fulfilling an administrative requirement; it is about empowering our people, giving them the dignity and security of tenure that they deserve, and ensuring that they can enjoy full homeownership”, said MEC Lusithi.
Ahead of the handing over ceremony in the hall, MEC Lusithi visited two elderly beneficiaries in their homes and personally handed over their title deeds. Nosipho Ndinayo (76) of Extension 8 said after receiving her title deed, “I’m so happy that now I’m a homeowner and grateful because other people did not get this opportunity this means a lot to me to receive my title deed”.
The MEC emphasized that when handing over title deeds, it is not only handing over documents.” We are granting our people access to adequate housing, full ownership of their homes, and a sense of pride in being part of a sustainable community. This marks the end of the government’s housing intervention and the beginning of true homeownership, where families can live with the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are secure in their homes”.
The 595 beneficiaries of Dutywa Ext 8 housing project, can now legally own their government subsidised houses ensuring sustainable housing for the previously destitute families. A verification process was undertaken by the Department together with the Mbashe local municipality. The process assisted with ensuring the rightful beneficiaries receive their title deeds and address identified challenges in that municipality.
The Department has embarked on a Title Deeds Restoration Programme to address the backlog in issuing of title deeds and thus ensuring access to adequate housing and full homeownership. In the 2024/2025 financial year, the department will register 8,572 title deeds.
The handover forms part of the Human Settlements Month activities where service delivery is enhanced during the month of October.