The Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements MEC, Siphokazi Lusithi, today handed over houses to 24 destitute and vulnerable beneficiaries in Kariega, reaffirming government’s commitment to restoring dignity, improving living conditions and providing secure housing for the province’s most vulnerable residents.
Speaking during the handover, MEC Lusithi said the department was prioritising elderly people, persons living with disabilities and child-headed households in its housing projects to ensure that those most in need receive assistance.
“As part of the interventions government is implementing, we are reprioritising the elderly, people living with disabilities and child-headed households in the projects undertaken by the department,” said MEC Lusithi.
She added that the department was implementing mixed-mode developments and the Informal Settlements Upgrading Programme to improve access to basic human settlement services and address the housing backlog.
“We understand the challenges posed by the housing backlog, and we are implementing these programmes to ensure that communities have access to the necessary basic human settlement conditions,” she emphasised.
The 24 housing units form part of the broader Port Elizabeth (PE) Destitute Housing Project, which comprises 300 units. Phase 1 consists of 120 units and is scheduled for completion in March 2027, while Phase 2 will deliver a further 180 units, with completion planned for June 2028.
The project forms part of government’s efforts to accelerate housing delivery and ensure that vulnerable families have access to decent, safe and secure shelter.
Among the beneficiaries was 97-year-old Mrs Nomademfu Maggie Noda, whose new home marks a significant improvement in her family’s living circumstances after years of moving between informal dwellings.
“I have been moving from one shack to the next. I cannot believe that today I own my own house. Here it is,” said an emotional Mama Nomademfu.
The newly constructed homes comprise standard housing units and specially designed units for beneficiaries living with disabilities. All units are fully serviced and built in accordance with national housing norms and standards, providing beneficiaries with safer and more dignified living conditions.
Beyond housing delivery, the project has also contributed to local economic development, creating employment opportunities for 144 local community members during the construction phase. The appointment of local contractors and labourers helped generate much-needed jobs while supporting the delivery of housing to deserving beneficiaries.
The Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements remains committed to advancing sustainable human settlements across the province, prioritising vulnerable communities and improving access to adequate housing and basic services.
ENDS