By Selloane Ntshonyane
- The City of Johannesburg and the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements handed over more than 160 homes to vulnerable residents.
- Matumi Manyama, 81, from Diepsloot, cares for three grandchildren and says she never thought she would get her own home.
The City of Johannesburg, together with the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements, stepped up efforts to hand over homes to vulnerable residents, including the elderly, people with disabilities and child-headed households.
The handovers form part of ongoing efforts by the government to provide safe and dignified housing to people who have been waiting years for a home. The aim is to bring stability to families and improve living conditions for residents across the province.
Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Human Settlements Mlungisi Mabaso said the city is committed to ensuring that no one is left behind when it comes to housing delivery.
“This is a reminder of why we do this work. When we see elderly residents, child-headed households and people living with disabilities receiving homes, it shows that our efforts are making a real difference. These houses represent more than shelter, they give families a chance to build a stable future,” Mabaso said.
One of the beneficiaries is Matumi Manyama, 81, who had been living in a small backroom in Diepsloot while caring for her three grandchildren.
“I never thought I would see this day. My grandchildren will now have a proper place to sleep and play. This house has given me peace and dignity,” Manyama said.
Another beneficiary, Thabo Molefe, 19, looks after his two younger siblings after the death of their parents. He said the new home will help them focus on their future.
Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements Tasneem Motara said the government is committed to putting vulnerable residents first when allocating homes.
Pictured above: Government officials handing over a home.
Image source: Gauteng Department of Human Settlements
