MEC SIPHOKAZI LUSITHI TO HANDOVER 56 HOUSES TO VULNERABLE FAMILIES IN MHLONTLO | Eastern Cape Department Of Human Settlements

Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements MEC, Ms Siphokazi Lusithi, will on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, officially hand over 56 newly completed houses to destitute families in Kumkani Mhlontlo Local Municipality.
The houses were constructed by Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as part of the Department’s ongoing programme to eradicate mud structures and improve the living conditions of vulnerable households in rural communities. The initiative also seeks to create employment opportunities and support local economic development, particularly through the participation of MSMEs in housing construction projects across rural areas.
The beneficiaries are part of the Mhlontlo Destitute 260, a human settlements project, which provides for the construction of 260 houses for destitute and vulnerable households living in mud and other unsafe structures. The project is being implemented across all 26 wards of the municipality. To date, 56 houses have been completed, providing dignified and safer homes for families in need. The project has also created opportunities for local economic participation, with eight MSMEs appointed to construct the houses as part of the overall implementation of the project.
Among the beneficiaries is 43-year-old Andisiwe Nqweniso, who lives with her husband and their three young children. The family currently lives in a two-room mud structure that had deteriorated significantly and was identified by the municipality as being in a poor condition. The household relies on child support grant as its primary source of income. The new house will provide the family with a safer, more secure and dignified living environment.
Media is invited to cover the handover as follows;
DATE: Wednesday, 23 September 2026
TIME: 10h00
VENUE: Zibungu Village, Kumkani Mhlontlo LM

Issued by the Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements.
Inquiries:
Mr. Yanga Funani: Director Communications Management
Mobile Number: 0783480099
Email: YangaF@ecdhs.gov.za
Mr Siyabonga Mdodi: Media Liaison Officer
Mobile: 072 345 8457 | Email: SiyabongaMd@ecdhs.gov.za