12 families get chance to move out of shacks
THE wait is finally over for Mfuleni resident Zukiswa Makinana and her family.
Construction of their home began this week and soon the family will move from their shack where they have lived for years.
Makinana’s home will be one of 12 built in the Bardale section of the informal settlement where South African companies joined the US-based Habitat for Humanity in the building of homes.
The first Monday in October is World Habitat Day and approximately 21 organisations joined Habitat for Humanity and the Nelson Mandela Foundation yesterday in assisting families to receive their longawaited homes.
Makinana, standing on the freshly laid foundation, said her family have been living in the area for eight years, waiting for this day.
“I am so happy and excited to finally stand here and no longer have to call a shack my home. Now my children and our belongings will be that much safer when we have our home,” said Makinana.
She said she will be joining the team of volunteers laying bricks and could not contain her excitement.
“I will be working with them and help as much as I can to build my house.
“It may take another week but I am more than happy after waiting for many years to finally have my own home,” said Makinana.
Volunteers were excited to get involved and, though it was a hot day, there were smiles and laughter as they commenced their work.
Community leader Bongani Tyembile said the initiative by Habitat for Humanity had been welcomed by the community.
“It’s massive… and good because the homes that are being built are bigger compared to the normal homes. We welcome Habitat and other organisations who want to help people with the dignity of having their own home,” said Tyembile.
Habitat for Humanity South Africa chairperson Brian Hillard said they plan to do more than just getting involved in building homes.
“We want to make a bigger impact on the poverty in this country and will be involved in bigger projects.
“There are similar projects happening in KwaZulu-Natal and in Johannesburg and we are moving from just building homes into more community development,” said Hillard.
Provincial Human Settlements Head of Department
Excited new homeowner joined a team of volunteers in bricklaying
Thando Mguli said partnering with Habitat and the private sector was a core priority.
“We believe in partnering with such partners as this aids us as well in tackling areas where there is a greater need.
“Smart partnerships mean we can assist many of the most deserving people living in informal settlements,” said Mguli.
Companies are donating their time each day to ensure the completion of these homes.
They said they hope to have construction completed by Friday for the 12 families eagerly awaiting their new homes.