Three Nelson Mandela Bay first-time homeowners shed tears of joy as they received keys to their furnished homes recently, when Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi handed over new houses in Motherwell.
The houses form part of the NU30 housing project, where a total of 127 units have been completed as part of the first phase. The project was implemented by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM), with a total of 1 820 houses to be built in phases.
Father of three, Mzikayise Njadayi, who is visually-impaired, and his wife and two of their children said the handover was a dream realised for his family, and a legacy for his children.
“This is the day that the Lord has made, we are rejoicing today. I could not be happier to finally see my wish come true, to have a home for my children, so that even if I die I know my children have a safe home. I am speechless today, and wish to thank everyone who made this day possible for us,” said Njadayi, whose home includes two new beds, carpets and couches.
Minister Kubayi highlighted the NU30 project as one of many housing projects that are progressing well in NMBM.
She was joined by Deputy Minister Pam Tshwete, and Deputy Executive Mayor, Councillor Babalwa Lobishe, during the joyous occasion.
“We are here to celebrate with these families as we hand them the keys to their new homes. In addition to that, we are here to hand over title deeds to 100 beneficiaries, because we understand the importance of owning a title deed. For our people, it opens other opportunities,” said Kubayi.
“We are also hosting an imbizo today, at the Raymond Mhlaba Sports Centre, to engage with NMBM residents on challenges they are faced with, concerning human settlements. We have heard there are serious challenges relating to the rectification of houses and we are here to find solutions to such problems. We have made great progress when it comes to the upgrading of informal settlements. Water, sanitation, and electricity services have already been installed in some informal settlements; we are only left with top structures now, and we will complete them too,” the minister added.
“I am not crying because I am sad, it is truly tears of joy. I am at peace now that I am a homeowner,” said 65-year-old grandmother, Nontuthuzelo Lombo, who could not contain her tears, saying that she was overjoyed to receive a new house and furniture. “I am so happy that I will no longer be a victim of heavy rains. I thank God.”
