The Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements handed over 56 newly completed houses to vulnerable and destitute families in Kumkani Mhlontlo Local Municipality on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, providing beneficiaries with safer and more dignified homes. The houses formed part of the Mhlontlo Destitute 260 human settlements project, which provides for the construction of 260 houses for households living in mud and other unsafe structures across all 26 wards of the municipality.
The handover was led by Human Settlements MEC Siphokazi Lusithi, who said the provision of adequate housing remained an important intervention in improving the lives of vulnerable households, particularly those living in unsafe conditions.
“Today’s handover is about restoring dignity and giving vulnerable families the opportunity to live in safe and decent homes. We are committed to ensuring that no family is left to live in a dangerous and unsuitable structure.” She further stated that this handover is worth celebrating because it empowers local MSMEs to create jobs for the community. “This handover is worth celebrated because was handed over to local MSMEs, the local that has been bought has been primarily sourced within the local municipality reinforcing our commitment that every investment that the government makes into the space must go towards development of local MSMEs towards creating job opportunities”, she said.
The project also contributes to local economic development through the participation of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the construction of the houses. Eight MSMEs were appointed as part of the implementation of the project, creating opportunities for local businesses to participate in the delivery of government housing programmes.
Among the beneficiaries was 43-year-old Andisiwe Nqweniso, who lives with her husband and their three young children. The family previously lived in a two-room mud structure that had deteriorated significantly and had been identified as being in poor condition. With the household relying primarily on the child support grant, the completion of the new house marked a significant change in the family’s living circumstances.
Ms. Nqweniso expressed her gratitude for the new home, saying it would provide her family with a greater sense of safety and security.
“We are very grateful for this house. Living in the mud structure was difficult, especially knowing that our children were growing up in those conditions. This new home gives us hope and a place where our family can live safely and with dignity. We appreciate the Department for changing our lives.”
The completion of the first 56 houses represents progress towards the overall target of 260 houses under the Mhlontlo Destitute 260 project. The Department will continue working with the municipality and other stakeholders towards the provision of adequate housing for vulnerable households across the municipality.
