In a move reflecting the Eastern Cape Provincial Government s commitment to sustainable human settlements and inclusive development, 200 title deeds were officially handed over to beneficiaries of the 1038 Housing Project in Centane, under the Mnquma Local Municipality.

Presiding on behalf of Executive Mayor Cllr Tunyiswa Manxila-Nkamisa, the Municipality's Portfolio Head for Budget and Treasury, Cllr Zodidi Sobekwa, led the handover ceremony, commending the beneficiaries and reaffirming the municipality s dedication to improving lives through access to dignified housing.

The event forms part of a broader provincial push to accelerate housing delivery, led by the Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements. The 1038 Housing Project in Centane is one of several strategic housing initiatives designed to address rural housing needs while aligning with the goals. By formalising ownership through title deeds, the government enables residents to unlock access to financial services, invest in home improvements, and contribute to local economic activity.

Earlier this year, Premier Oscar Mabuyane reaffirmed the province s commitment to fast-track housing development, particularly in historically underserved areas. The province has set ambitious targets for housing projects over the next five years.

In the 2025/26 financial year, the government will deliver 4 970 Breaking New Ground Housing units; and 4 350 serviced sites in all our regions. In the next five years we are investing R4.3 billion to build 26 400 houses”, Premier Mabuyane stated.

With initiatives like the Centane title deed handover, not only housing backlogs are being addressed, but also restoring dignity to communities that have waited for years to gain legal ownership of their homes.