Over 400 residents finally have homes in Olievenhoutbosch

The Olievenhoutbosch Ext. 60 housing project to provide 447 low-cost houses to residents of the area has finally been completed.

This milestone comes after the project faced numerous challenges over the years, including a suspension in August 2022 when the contractor needed more money.

However, the project resumed in 2023, leading to the successful delivery of these much-needed housing units.

During her address at the site on the morning of March 12, Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya expressed her gratitude and excitement.

“It is a great honour to be here today with the people of Olievenhoutbosch, where we can celebrate some good news.”

The mayor highlighted that the completion of the 447 new housing units represents a significant achievement in service delivery for the residents of the area.

Before and after pics! The shack that Ms Linah stayed in with her family before the handover of her new home today 😊 🥳. #ReASpana #TshwaneCares pic.twitter.com/atYPkZuf3H

— City of Tshwane (@CityTshwane) March 12, 2025

Ms Linah Sekete thanking @CityTshwane for making her dream of being a home owner come true. #ReASpana pic.twitter.com/K0eO8A0d3S

— City of Tshwane (@CityTshwane) March 12, 2025

She emphasised that the project has not only provided housing but has also established the necessary bulk infrastructure to transform these houses into homes.

This included the construction of 1.5km of bulk water lines, repairs to internal water and sewer reticulation, and the installation of 758 water meters, among other critical infrastructure developments.

Moya elaborated on the progress made during the project.

“There is a 100% completion of earthworks and foundations, along with a 99% completion rate for roofs, doors, windows, electrical works, and plumbing; 79% of water and sewer and water connections have been completed,” she said.

Despite some elements still needing attention, she assured residents that the remaining tasks would benefit from a reprioritised budget of R4.5-million aimed at ensuring adequate water provision in Olievenhoutbosch Ext 60.

She reiterated the commitment of the multiparty government, which took office in October 2024, to prioritise equitable basic service delivery across the Tshwane metro.

Moya remarked on the historical neglect many residents faced, particularly in townships and informal settlements.

We have a new home owner 🥳😊. EM @nasiphim officially hands over the keys to Ms Linah Sekete! #ReASpana pic.twitter.com/q2EGnXST8D

— City of Tshwane (@CityTshwane) March 12, 2025

“For too long, many residents have felt neglected, experiencing unequal access to basic services, particularly in townships, informal settlements, and rural areas.”

“We cannot allow a situation where some residents of Tshwane live without dignity by going without access to essential services,” said Moya.

She referred to Olievenhoutbosch as one of the townships that received unequal access to quality service delivery in the past.

“Addressing this inequality is a core motivation for the current administration.”

Moya acknowledged the ongoing challenges in housing provision in the country and emphasised the need for innovative solutions within the government’s limited resources.

She pointed out that the Olievenhoutbosch project is a prime example of such innovation.

While celebrating this milestone, the mayor extended her appreciation to the Olievenhoutbosch community for their patience throughout the delays caused by factors such as vandalism, contractor changes, and the impacts of Covid-19.

She emphasised the administration’s broader vision for liveable and affordable housing across Tshwane, which includes initiatives like mixed-use developments and the recent handover of Schubart Park.

In her closing remarks, Moya urged the community to cherish and maintain their new homes, advising against selling or leasing them to ensure they remain a foundation for future generations.

She affirmed that the government would take swift action against any unlawful occupation, calling on residents to adhere to city by-laws to keep the area clean and liveable.

“It is a great feeling to own your own home.”

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