There were tears and laughter as Masiphumelele residents received the keys to their forever homes on Thursday October 17 as part of the phase 4 housing project.

A number of elderly beneficiaries were among the first residents to receive keys to the breaking new ground (BNG) units.

The handover was a first for the Masiphumelele phase 4 housing project, which will be home to 227 qualifying beneficiaries who will be first-time property owners. A total of 85 beneficiaries have moved in during the course of the week.

Homeowner, Rose Pithsadi, fought back her tears as her keys were handed over to her.

She said she had been on the City’s beneficiary list for many years and could not believe that she will be spending the night in her own house.

Mr Booi said it was pleasing to see first-time homeowners receive their keys and move into their new homes so successfully.

It’s especially meaningful as the word Masiphumelele means “let us succeed” in isiXhosa. Today, we have seen that when we all work together, we can succeed. It has been about more than handing over of keys. These homes will improve the living conditions of these beneficiaries and make a difference to the lives of our most vulnerable residents by empowering them as property owners,” he said.

Read the full story in the Echo on Thursday October 24.