The MMC for Human Settlements Anthea Leitch was joined by ward 122 councillor and chief whip of council Sthembiso Zungu on Wednesday as they celebrated another significant milestone with the handover of title deeds in Lehae, in Region G.
Both MMC Leitch and Zungu were overjoyed for the beneficiaries from the community.
The Lehae Housing Development project was approved in 1998 and 3127 RDP houses were built and completed by 2007. The city and provincial government first started issuing title deeds in 2009. In her address to the attendees, the MMC advised that she had been informed that more than 600 stands were invaded when the consultant left the site and, as a result, it was difficult to continue building units but Leitch was confident that, with new innovative programs such as the Upgrading of Informal Settlements Programme, some of the legacy issues will be dealt with.
MMC Leitch noted that she has been in office for just over a year and that “the days when we allocate units or title deeds to beneficiaries are my absolute favourite days. They help to make all the other difficult days worthwhile.”
This was largely because: “Giving people the gift of home ownership is an important brick in the wall that changes the face of our society. Like the bricks that were laid one at a time to build the homes you have been living in, each title deed is a step towards giving people an asset that will secure a legacy for you and your families. South Africa is improved one household at a time.”
She said a title deed represents more than a legal document; it symbolises stability, security, and opportunity for individuals and families.
By officially transferring ownership rights, the city was not only acknowledging the rightful ownership of property but also laying the foundation for sustainable growth and prosperity within communities.
The MMC also made a plea to the beneficiaries to value their title deeds and not allow anyone to trick them into taking out any debt or signing their deeds over to any other parties. She reassured them that if they were approached by anyone advising them to sign any type of form to contact the staff at the Human Settlements Department, including the MMC’s office staff, who would be happy to assist.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the recipients of the title deeds and express our gratitude to all stakeholders who have contributed to this milestone achievement. Together, we will continue to work towards building resilient, inclusive, and thriving communities across the City of Johannesburg.”
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