The Swartland Municipality recently handed over the keys to 70 new homes; some of those who received a home have waited over 20 years.
Swartland, South Africa (03 June 2022) – 70 people and their families have received long-awaited homes over the last two months. Two of the most recent recipients have waited for homes for over twenty years.
Executive Mayor, Harold Cleophas, handed over 24 houses yesterday at the De Hoop Housing Project.
“It has not been an easy road to get to here and even now, we are faced with challenges. That is why it is critically important that every new resident take ownership and commit themselves to taking care of their house and community”, said Mayor Cleophas.
For many beneficiaries, the handover was a very emotional day. For Magdalena Solomons and Josephine Turner, receiving their homes was a particularly significant. Both ladies have waited more than 20 years for a property to call their own. Mrs Turner, 81, said she could not wait to move her furniture in and have her children and grandchildren visit. A very emotional Mrs Solomons said that receiving her own house was particularly important as she lost her husband a year ago due to COVID.
The Municipality is currently in the first phase of the De Hoop housing project. During the first phase, 395 houses will be built. It is the Municipality’s priority to move beneficiaries in as soon as the houses are complete to avoid illegal occupation and vandalism.
The mayor shared that beneficiaries are not allowed to sell their houses within the first eight years of ownership. He encourages each recipient to care for and maintain their home so that the neighbourhood can be proud of the gift bestowed upon it.
“Take pride in your new house and your community and please take care of your house. There are no second chances for receiving another house. Housing will continue to be a challenge and as we move forward our resources will be restricted. National and Provincial government has indicated on several occasions that the provision of houses will have to change in the future, so take care and invest into what you are getting today.” said Mayor Cleophas.
The next handover of houses is scheduled for the end of June.
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