The Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements has handed over 254 title deeds to beneficiaries of government-subsidised houses in Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality, under the Chris Hani District Municipality. Human Settlements MEC, Siphokazi Lusithi, handed over the title deeds as part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to speed up the registration and issuing of title deeds to qualifying beneficiaries across the province.

The 254 beneficiaries are recipients of the Queenstown Nomzamo 599 (501) Human Settlements Project, which provided decent and quality homes to families in need in Komani. The beneficiaries were identified following a verification process conducted by the Department in partnership with Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality.

Speaking at the handover, MEC Lusithi said providing a house was part of government’s responsibility. She highlighted the importance of ensuring that beneficiaries also receive secure ownership of their homes. “This is part of the Department’s commitment to restoring people’s dignity through security of tenure, one title deed at a time”. She added that a title deed is an important family asset that provides security and can benefit families for generations.

For beneficiaries, receiving the title deeds brought a sense of relief and happiness after years of waiting. Monica Pityana was among those who received her title deed and said she was grateful that her home was now legally secured for her grandchildren. “I am very happy that I finally received my title deed. My patience finally paid off. I had two children, but sadly, they both passed away. I am now left with my grandchildren, and this is their home. Knowing that the house is now legally ours means a lot to me because it will remain in the family,” said Pityana.

As part of the programme, MEC Lusithi visited selected elderly beneficiaries at their homes to personally hand over their title deeds. This was followed by a community engagement session and a formal handover ceremony at the community hall.

The Department registered 1 666 title deeds during the 2025/2026 financial year, successfully meeting its annual target. For the 2026/2027 financial year, the Department has set a target of 2 237 title deeds as it continues to intensify registration and handover efforts across the Eastern Cape.

Through these efforts, the Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements continues to strengthen security of residence and ensure that beneficiaries receive not only houses, but homes that are legally secured for their families and future generations in the province.