The Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements reaffirmed its commitment to restoring dignity and improving the living conditions of vulnerable households when MEC for Human Settlements Siphokazi Lusithi, handed over eight (8) newly completed houses to military veterans in Winnie Madikizela Mandela Local Municipality in the Alfred Nzo District recently.
The handover formed part of government’s ongoing efforts to provide military veterans and other vulnerable groups with access to decent and adequate housing. The eight houses formed part of a broader housing project implemented by the Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements, which provides for the construction of 256 houses for destitute and vulnerable households across 11 wards in the municipality. At the time of the handover, 251 houses had been completed, benefiting families in need, including military veterans.
The houses allocated to military veterans had been enhanced to provide improved living conditions. Each 50-square-metre unit includes a carport, a bathroom fitted with a toilet and bathtub, as well as a kitchen equipped with cupboards and a stove.
Among the beneficiaries is 62-year-old Xolisa Nteyi, who relied on a social grant and had been living with his brother and his family in Mount Zion. Nteyi, his wife, four children and seven grandchildren had been living in a dilapidated house, making adequate shelter a daily challenge.
The handover of his new home marked a significant change for the family, providing them with a safer and more dignified living environment. Speaking during the handover, MEC Lusithi said the programme demonstrated government’s commitment to recognising the contribution of military veterans while ensuring that vulnerable households were not left behind.
“This was about more than handing over houses, it was about restoring dignity, hope and security to our military veterans and their families. These are people who made sacrifices for our country and government has a responsibility to ensure that they are supported and able to live in decent conditions. The progress made through this project demonstrated what could be achieved when we remained focused on improving the lives of our people. We would continue prioritising vulnerable households and accelerating housing delivery across the Eastern Cape”, said MEC Lusithi.
For Mr Nteyi, receiving the keys to his new home brought a sense of relief and happiness after years of living in difficult circumstances. “I am very grateful to receive this house. For many years, my family and I had been living in a house that was no longer suitable for us, and we did not know when our situation would change. Receiving the keys to this new home gave me hope and peace of mind. My children and grandchildren now have a safe and dignified place to call home. I am thankful to the government and everyone who had played a role in making this possible,” said Nteyi.
The Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements remains committed to prioritising vulnerable households and ensuring that housing interventions contribute to restoring dignity, improving living conditions and building sustainable communities.
