The Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has called on Social Housing Institutions (SHIs) to continue partnering with the government to redress pre-1994 spatial planning through the delivery of affordable rental social housing units closer to economic opportunities.

Minister Kubayi was addressing SHIs about the importance of their optimal performance in delivering affordable rental accommodation for the qualifying beneficiaries earning a monthly household income of between R1850 and R22 000.

SHIs are non-profit companies that are central in the delivery of social housing units for the Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA), an entity of the Department of Human Settlements.

The engagement served as a platform to analyse the current state of the sector, examine factors contributing to challenges affecting the delivery of units, and explore possible solutions.

“As a collective, we must find a solution to address blocked and distressed projects. This will help to make a dent in the current backlog estimated at 300 000 households. This will contribute towards a spatial plan reflective of a democratic country. Therefore, we must deliver projects on time and within budget”, said Minister Kubayi.

“We are willing to partner with you to get the work done as we have a collective responsibility to house our nation. I want you to work with us to shape social housing for the next 30 years” added Kubayi.

Minister Kubayi also informed the SHIs that she has engaged the Banking Association of South Africa (BASA) to invest in social housing projects in response to a need and demand for social housing units in the country.

Regarding the hijacked buildings in some of the country’s major cities, she underscored government’s commitment to transform them into social housing.

For media Enquiries, contact:* Terrence Manase, Spokesperson to the Minister on 082 338 6707 I Terrence.manase@dhs.gov.za or DHS Head of Communications Nozipho Zulu on 078 457 9376 I Nozipho.zulu@dhs.gov.za

Issued by the Ministry of Human Settlements, Govan Mbeki House 240, Justice Mahomed Street, Sunnyside, Pretoria*