The MEC said the houses were built before 1994 when their owners were not allowed title deeds. “These houses were registered in the municipal township register, and no further action was taken afterward; hence, we have a situation where some of the owners have already passed away,” he said.

He said that the government was prioritising the granting of title deeds to property owners. The deeds were handed over during door-to-door visits to five houses in Section A and five houses in Section F. Muthavini Hlaveka Mavunda, a resident who received a deed, thanked the MEC for coming to her aid, saying she attempted to get the deed to the house on several occasions.

Also read: Mopani says Risinga View will have water soon

She said the municipality refused to give her ownership because she had outstanding water rates. “I couldn’t raise the money they wanted, now you gave it to me free of charge,” she said. Another resident who obtained a title deed in Section F, Sibongile Mshwana, said she needed employment, saying the title deed alone was not enough and wanted something tangible to help her feed her family.

“While I appreciate your effort in bringing the title deed to me by yourself, I’m hungry and I need a job,” she said. The MEC explained to recipients the value of the title deeds. “With this document, you can approach your bank and ask for a loan for your kids’ education,” he said.