Mamothobi Dlamini who earlier this year expressed frustration over delays to her house during MEC Motara’s community visit could not hide her joy. “I am happy that my house has finally been completed because I have lived in a shack for 15 years,” said Dlamini.
Offering encouragement to others still awaiting allocation, Dlamini urged patience: “Those still waiting must remain calm. When we get impatient, we risk doing the wrong things.”
Another beneficiary, Maureen Makhetha, accepted a completed unit on behalf of her late mother, who passed away in 2024.
“I am so happy today. I wish my mom was here to experience this moment,” Makhetha said. “I’m going to stay here with my sister and our children. We will honour our mother’s wish and live together in a peaceful environment as a family.”
For Sandile Dlamini, the completion of his home brings dignity and basic comfort. “I’m relieved the construction is finished. It will finally put an end to the dust and rats that came with staying in a shack,” he said.
MEC Motara thanked Drieziek residents for their patience during a handover held in a notably upbeat atmosphere. She was accompanied by the City of Johannesburg’s MMC for Human Settlements, Councillor Mlungisi Mabaso.
“During my last visit as part of the Department’s Siyeza Nakuwe campaign, many of you were understandably unhappy because your houses were incomplete,” said Motara. “I am glad to return today to hand over your homes.”
Motara acknowledged that the Drieziek project had experienced delays for various reasons and reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to finishing outstanding work. “We note there are still stands with shacks in the area. As part of our informal settlement eradication efforts, our Beneficiary Management Unit will return to assess whether those still living in shacks qualify for assistance. We will work with the municipality to support qualifying households,” she said.
The Department of Human Settlements will continue working with all stakeholders to ensure incomplete houses across Gauteng are built and handed over to deserving, qualifying beneficiaries.
