Minister of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation Lindiwe Sisulu, MEC Nonkqubela Pieters and Eastern Cape-born businessman Chippa Mpengesi have handed over a home to an indigent family at Buthulo Village, ward 7 of Port St Johns Local Municipality.

The home was built using alternative building technology which enables quicker and more cost-effective construction. Furthermore, the home is warmer in winter and cooler during summer.

The home is a donation from Mpengesi, following the destruction of the previous family house during a 2017 natural disaster. The recipient of the home, Ms Macacisile Moni, had been living with her family under squalid conditions after their mud hut was destroyed following a natural disaster in 2017.

Today’s handover is part of buildup activities ahead of the launch of the OR Tambo District Coordinated Development Model by President Cyril Ramaphosa tomorrow, 17 September 2019. The model is a joint and collaborative planning by all spheres of government which results in one plan for the district, thus enabling government to deliver services to the people of South Africa in a more seamless and coordinated approach.

“Our commitment to the people of South Africa is that we will do everything within our limited resources to restore their dignity through human settlements. We are grateful to the sponsor of this house the Chairperson of Chippa United, Mr Siviwe Chippa Mpengesi who has since committed himself to building 10 houses for each Province”, said Minister Sisulu.

“We encourage our people to cherish and look after their properties. We appeal to those whom we have not reached to bear with us as we will surely deliver on our promises”, added Sisulu.

Minister was accompanied by Deputy Minister f Human Settlements, Ms Pam Tshwete and Cllr Ayanda Gantsho, the Speaker of Port St Johns Local Municipality.

Issued by the head of Communication and spokesperson of Ministry of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, Makhosini Mgitywa. For queries call Tuso Zibula on 072 127 1565 or Tuso.zibula@dhs.gov.za