The Eastern Cape Human Settlements Department has officially handed over homes to 130 beneficiaries who had previously been living in squalor, at a value of R23 million in Port St John’s.
This marks a significant milestone in the department’s efforts to mitigate disasters and protect vulnerable communities.
Avela Mjajubana, member of the East Cape Provincial Legislature, representing the MEC for Human Settlements, Siphokazi Lusithi, emphasised the importance of providing safe and dignified housing to the Port St John’s community.
“We’re excited to hand over Phase One of Project 350, which aims to build 350 houses for the Port St John’s community. Port St John is a disaster-prone area, and with summer approaching, we’re racing against time to provide safe and dignified homes before the heavy rains arrive.
“The Department has thus far spent R23 million on the project,” Mjajubana said.
The beneficiaries, including the Magose family, received the keys to their new homes in Qhaka Village.
Mathembiso Magose, a 61-year-old grandmother, and her family previously lived in a dilapidated mud structure, relying on social grants as all family members were unemployed.
“I’m over the moon to finally hold the keys to my new home. It’s a dream come true and I’m so grateful to the Eastern Cape Human Settlements Department for making this possible. This house represents a new beginning, a chance to create lasting memories with my loved ones,” Magose said.
The Mkhanzi 350 project prioritises destitute and vulnerable beneficiaries within the local authority and has completed 130 homes across seven villages in the municipal area.
The department said the initiative aimed at eradicating mud structures in rural areas.
Mjajubana said the government wanted to give warm homes to people.
“We make it a point to appoint contractors that will create jobs locally. We appreciate that the people of Port St John’s were patient enough. We have delivered on our promise,” he said.
One of the beneficiaries, Nophelo Khwence, said she was very happy that the government had provided a home for her and her family.
She said,
Sylvia Mnconywa, another beneficiary, said her dignity had been restored with her getting the new house.
“I am very happy that I have a house. I had nothing but now I own a home. The government has really helped me and my family,” she said.
