Residents of A Section in Lingelethu, Khayelitsha, braved the chilly weather to witness the handover of a house by Deputy Minister of Human Settlements Tandi Mahambehlala to the Mdlulwa family on Thursday 23 July.

Family celebrates new home after six years

The family’s previous house was destroyed in a fire, leaving them destitute.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Nokwanda Mdluthwa described the occasion as a special day, saying they were “over the moon”.

Mdlulwa expressed her gratitude to the Department of Human Settlements and all the stakeholders who played a role in the construction of the house. She vowed to take good care of it.

“We have mixed feelings about the event. We are happy that, finally, the house has been rebuilt, but sadly, the owner of the house, Vivian Mdlulwa, is no longer with us. However, her children now have a home. They will have a warm home,” she said.

She urged Vivian’s children to remain united and live peacefully in the house.

Deputy minister praises family’s resilience

Mahambehlala said having shelter was a constitutional right in South Africa. She thanked the family for their patience while waiting for the house to be completed.

“The flames that engulfed the house caused instability in the family. It forced the family to seek alternative accommodation while trying to find ways to rebuild their home. This house is more than a place of shelter. It is a monument to resilience and a testimony to compassion,” she said.

Mahambehlala said the government’s responsibility was to walk alongside its people during moments of loss and renewal.

Community supports family through difficult times

Ward 94 councillor Xolisa Peter praised all the stakeholders who helped make the handover possible. She also expressed gratitude to community members who supported the family during this difficult time.

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