The Eastern Cape Provincial Government, led by Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, together with Human Settlements and Public Works & Infrastructure MEC, Siphokazi Lusithi, handed over houses to two destitute women in Nyarha (Bedford), Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality.

The two women who are part of the Bedford Nyarha 161 (80), a human settlements project for destitute and vulnerable families in Nyarha. The Department of Human Settlements is collaborating closely with the local municipality, which serves as the project's implementing agent.

Among the beneficiaries of the programme is Elizabeth Nontshinga, a 100-year-old elderly woman from Olivewood Farm in Nyara, who received the keys to her new home, a two-bedroom house with an open-plan kitchen and lounge, fully furnished with essentials. She shared her gratitude, saying: I never thought I would own a house at my age. I m beyond grateful to the government for giving me a home after all these years." The other beneficiary, Amanda Mentoor (38), received her mother's answered prayers, as her mother, Sindiswa Mentoor (69), had applied for the house before passing away.

Premier Mabuyane urged beneficiaries to take care of their homes, emphasising that they are not just government projects but their inheritance and future. He stated, "Today, Nyarha is not just witnessing a handover ceremony. It is witnessing the affirmation of dignity, the celebration of women, and the renewal of hope towards a better life for all South Africans."

The Eastern Cape Provincial Government is committed to bringing prosperity and dignity through housing delivery for all.

Our commitment to housing delivery goes beyond building structures, it is about restoring dignity, creating safe communities, and ensuring that every family in the Eastern Cape has a place they can proudly call home. We are accelerating our programmes to make sure no one is left behind in accessing this basic human right”, MEC Lusithi stated.