Khanya Sitsheke
After more than a decade of planning, the R27 billion Southern Farms Mega City Project has officially broken ground at the Bushkoppies Site Camp in Region G of the City of Johannesburg.
The site handover, held on 9 May 2025, marks the start of a 10-year initiative to deliver integrated housing and economic upliftment in Joburg South.
Central to the project is the construction of 43 000 housing units, directly addressing the City’s long-standing housing backlog. “This project is about dignity,” affirmed Cllr Mlungisi Mabaso, MMC for Human Settlements. “It restores faith by ensuring our residents are seen, valued and housed decently.”
Beyond shelter, Southern Farms will offer clinics, schools, taxi ranks, roads and essential infrastructure to create a liveable, connected community. These amenities are designed to support sustainable growth and ensure neighbourhoods prosper long after the last home is built.|
Economic empowerment is a core pillar of the development. Cllr Nomoya Mnisi, MMC for Economic Development, urged locals—especially youth, women and people with disabilities—to capitalise on jobs and business opportunities during construction and beyond. “We want to see communities not just housed but thriving.”
Officials also appealed for community to guard the project against land invasions and illicit activity. “Protect the development, support the appointed developer and refrain from anything that could stall progress.”
On beneficiary management, MMC Mabaso stressed strict compliance: “No one will receive a house unless they’re on the verified housing database.” Transparent profiling will ensure fair allocation.
Executive Mayor Cllr Dada Morero emphasised the project’s long-term impact: “Southern Farms is a bold statement that every Joburg South resident deserves dignity, opportunity and progress. We’re building more than homes—we’re building an inclusive future.”
As work commences, residents are optimistic about new homes, jobs and a shared vision for prosperity in the south of Joburg.
SOURCED FROM THE JOBURG WEBSITE.
