The MEC for human settlements, Speedy Mashilo, symbolically handed over two of the 300 housing units to Gcobisa Masingili (35) and Nompumelelo Mashiloane (30) last Friday.

An ecstatic Masingili hailed this is as the best present, since life was very difficult living in a shack with her children in her condition. “I am so grateful that my house accommodates my wheelchair and I can move around freely. This house was really built for me and I’m over the moon.” She concluded by thanking the government for keeping its promises.

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“I thought government had abandoned us in this rural area, but today we have a fully furnished house with running water. We are very happy and I know that our parents are celebrating with us in heaven,” said Mashiloane.

She explained that life was very tough for them, but with the help of their neighbours and the councillor, they felt safe and loved. Mashilo mentioned that the department’s allocation of houses is biased towards senior citizens, people with disabilities, orphans and child-headed families.

“I am glad that we are handing over quality and fully furnished houses and the contractor has moved beyond the norm and standard of the department,” he said.

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Mashilo stressed the need for the rapid release of land to enable beneficiaries to buy service stands and build for themselves.

At the same event, he also issued 900 title deeds to rightful beneficiaries in the Rockdale and Newtown integrated development settlements in Middelburg.

One of the title deeds beneficiaries, Mokwena Maria (68), expressed her gratitude becoming a legitimate homeowner during her birthday month.

“This is the greatest day for me. I am really grateful to government,” she said. She added that her children and grandchildren would have the legacy to look after in later years.