Government’s commitment to bestow security of tenure and restoring dignity for subsidised housing beneficiaries is unwavering. Mpumalanga Premier, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, made this reaffirmation as she issued more than 300 title deeds to housing beneficiaries from various areas in the Govan Mbeki Local Municipality during a two-day Executive Council Outreach Programme and Premier’s Imbizo held at Embalenhle Stadium on Thursday, 07th September 2023. The Imbizo was part of the Executive Council Outreach Programme that promotes active citizenry where government engages communities on service delivery and general development.
Addressing the Imbizo, Premier Mtsweni-Tsipane urged the receipts to hold on to their legal documents and houses. “You are now title holders; do not sell your houses, keep them and your title deeds. This is generational assert; hold tight to it and secure the future of your subsequent generations”, urged Premier. She further reiterated government’s resolve to restore people's dignity. As such, in the current financial year, the department has set aside R8 million for the land restoration programme to register 4054 title deeds.
Reacting to her receipt of the title deed, Ms Thandi Mthembu (72) from Bethal said that the document takes away all her fears about her house. “I have always feared that my children might be illegally evicted or taken advantage of when I die. However, all that has gone away as I know the document shall live to speak even in my demise”, she said. Adding the voice of appreciation, Maria Mavimbela (72) from Leslie said the document means security for her children and is emblematic of a caring government.
The public also had a chance to elevate frustrations and discontent on general development. The issues cut across the competency of all departments where a need for houses and land availability was highlighted. To this end, Acting Head of Human Settlements, Ms Hazel Zitha, reported that since the 2018/19 financial year, R1.2 billion has been injected into Govan Mbeki Local Municipality. This financial injection has gone towards servicing sites, delivery of social amenities, and upgrading sewer infrastructure in informal settlements, amongst other services. More community engagements will continue to other parts of the projects.
ISSUED BY THE COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTORATE
MPUMALANGA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SETTLEMENTS
CONTACT: FREDDY NGOBE – 013 766 6014 / 082 859 4630/ flngobe@mpg.gov.za