Mama Nonyameko Eunice Msili, a 97-year-old survivor of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), was handed the keys to a newly built home by the Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements on June 5, 2025.
The handover formed part of the department’s ongoing efforts to restore dignity and provide safe, sustainable housing to vulnerable members of the community.
The handover took place KwaNoxolo Village, Keiskammahoek, marking a significant milestone in the department’s commitment to providing safe and dignified housing to vulnerable groups.
Mama Msili’s life was shattered last year when her daughter was brutally murdered in their home. Despite her advanced age, Mama Msili remained the pillar of her family, caring for her surviving daughter and a son debilitated by a stroke. With no income besides her old age grant, Mama Msili’s situation was dire. However, her greatest desire was to receive the gift of a safe and secure home from her government. Today, that dream has become a reality.
The newly built house, donated by Abakhaya Construction through a public-private partnership, meets the National Human Settlements norms and standards. The house features two bedrooms, a kitchen, and a dining area, providing a safe and secure living space for Mama Msili and her family. This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration between government and the private sector in addressing the housing needs of vulnerable groups.
Hon. MEC Siphokazi Lusithi emphasized that the department prioritizes vulnerable people, including the elderly, people with disabilities, and GBVF victims, in housing provision. “The story of Mama Eunice is an inspiring example of government-private sector collaboration, where a house was donated to a GBV victim after a promise made by the Premier Oscar Mabuyane,” said MEC Lusithi.
In line with the Youth Month theme, “Skills for the Changing World – Empowering Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation,” the department has also empowered 75 young people through skills development and job creation. This initiative aims to equip young people with the skills and knowledge necessary to participate meaningfully in the economy.
Mama Msili expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the government and Abakhaya Construction for the new home. “All I wanted was to celebrate my birthday in a proper home, seeing it now, I’m truly over the moon and can’t begin to express my happiness,” she said.
The Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements reaffirms its commitment to providing safe and dignified housing to vulnerable groups. We believe that every individual deserves a secure and comfortable living space, and we will continue to work tirelessly to make this vision a reality.