Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, will join esteemed global leaders at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Urban Transformation Summit in San Francisco.

The three-day Summit, taking place between 21 – 23 October 2024, brings together influential figures from business, government, civil society, and academia to explore innovative solutions for urban development under the theme "Mobilising global action for more inclusive and sustainable cities".

Minister Kubayi's participation underscores South Africa's commitment to shaping and contributing to vital global developmental conversations.

As a champion of pivotal policy discussions, Minister Kubayi’s collaboration with the WEF has positioned her as a key voice in the international exchange of knowledge.

She has championed South Africa’s national interest in discussions on government policies, innovation, and tourism and made significant contributions to the WEF's dialogues on the Fourth Industrial Revolution and tourism.

The WEF Urban Transformation Summit aims to strengthen public-private partnerships and drive collective action for a greater impact on global urban development.

Minister Kubayi's attendance demonstrates South Africa's dedication to addressing complex urban challenges and promoting sustainable development.

The Minister’s participation at the Summit will include delivering remarks at the Opening Reception and Awards Ceremony, participating in the Mayors and Urban Economic Leaders Forum and lead a pivotal discussion on Driving Climate Action in Cities.

Additionally, Minister Kubayi will address the Urban Innovation Forum session, focusing on Accelerating Urban Innovation, sharing valuable insights and expertise to drive progress in this critical area.

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

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

The Department of Human Settlements (DHS) warns the public to be vigilant of relentless housing scams on social media platforms.

Scammers are falsely claiming to be department employees and offering assistance with government-subsidized housing applications, targeting unsuspecting citizens and offering RDP houses around the country at a staggering cost of R100,000.

To qualify for a fully subsidized government house, applicants must meet specific criteria, including being a South African citizen, a first-time homeowner, and having a combined household income of less than R3,500 per month.

The Department emphasizes that applications for RDP/BNG houses can only be processed through Provincial Departments of Human Settlements and municipalities, and no organization is mandated to facilitate this on behalf of the government.

Citizens are urged to exercise caution and report suspicious social media accounts to the department or municipalities immediately.

To verify authenticity and avoid potential scams, citizens can contact the National Department of Human Settlements directly at 0800 146 873 or via email at info@dhs.gov.za, or visit their local municipal offices.

The Department remains committed to providing safe and affordable housing opportunities to qualifying South Africans and urges citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities

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

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

QUESTION 1 - MINISTER ON GOVERNMENT EFFORTS TO ERADICATE ALLEGED CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES IN THE HUMAN SETTLEMENTS SECTOR*

The Minister of Human Settlements has spoken extensively against criminal acts that are taking place in the sector.

The Minister of Human Settlements has engaged the South African Police Service at different levels regarding the criminal acts that are taking place in the sector.

Corruption and extortion of monies either from occupants of housing beneficiaries or service providers are criminal acts and if they are elevated to the attention of the department and or the Minister in particular they will be reported to the South African Police Service.

*QUESTION 2 - MINISTER ON GOVERNMENT EFFORTS TO IMPROVE EMERGENCY HOUSING RESPONSE DURING NATIONAL DISASTERS*

When the National Department Human Settlements assumed the responsibility of Emergency Housing Response, it developed the Emergency Housing Response Guidelines. To improve the work the department is doing around this area an Emergency Housing Disaster Management Framework has been developed.

To ensure that there is urgent response to disasters and provision of emergency housing, both the guidelines dictates that:

a. That emergency housing response teams must be on site within 24 hours and as and when the site is declared safe by relevant authorities e.g. PDMC, MDMC etc, b. The report will then be compiled and be processed within 48 hours.

Since assuming this responsibility the department has ensured that needs for emergency housing are met in areas that were affected by the disasters. This is further amplified by the collaboration with other stakeholders including NGOs and other sector departments.

It is important to note that the Emergency Housing Response Fund does not only provide relief in the form of temporary housing, but the outputs thereof include the provision of building material as well as repairs which are facilitated by the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC).

Furthermore, following decision made during the meeting of the Minister and Members of Executive Councils responsible for Human Settlements (MINMEC) on 03 October 2024, the department intends to partner with traditional leaders, utilizing geo-mapping to identify disaster-resilient areas suitable for human settlements development.

This collaborative initiative aims to enable traditional leaders to identify safe land parcels for settlement purposes and avoid disaster-prone areas in vulnerable provinces.

By leveraging geo-mapping technology, the department aims to inform decision makers to make better land allocation decisions, ensuring the safety and well-being of communities.

*QUESTION 3 – MINISTER ON GOVERNMENT EFFORTS TO IMPROVE INFORMAL SETTLEMENTS*

The National Department of Human Settlements is aware of the lack of performance by some provinces. The Minister of Human Settlements directed the Provincial Government Department responsible for Human Settlements to submit acceleration plans and revised business plan for the implementation of 2024/25 ISUPG to the National Department of Human Settlements on 13 September 2024.

The purpose of the acceleration plans is to ensure that there is improvement in the implementation of the informal settlement projects.

The majority of the changes effected are on projects already in the implementation stage, with a few new projects that are implementation-ready being introduced to accelerate the upgrade of informal settlements and improve expenditure.

*QUESTION 4 – MINISTER ON GOVERNMENT EFFORTS TO IMPROVE LEGISLATION IN THE HUMAN SETTLEMENTS SECTOR TO RESPOND ADEQUATELY TO CURRENT SITUATIONS*

The Department is embarking on a process of policy and legislative review, including the development of the White Paper for Human Settlements.

Part of this process will give effect to the review of the current upper income threshold of R22 000, as well as well as lower income threshold of R3500.

The White Paper is at the stage of Cabinet approval process. Once the threshold review is finalised, relevant details of will be publicly communicated through a regulation, after discussions with the National Treasury, Statistics South Africa and Department of Labour and Employment, which will take place after the release of the living conditions survey report, which is likely to be in December 2024.

*QUESTION 5 - MINISTER ON GOVERNMENT EFFORTS TO ADDRESS SERVERAL HUMAN SETTLEMENTS CHALLENGES IN THE GAUTENG PROVINCE*

*(a) Actions taken to address the lack of promulgation of the 1996/7 housing list in Gauteng:*

The Gauteng Department of Human Settlements acknowledges the historical backlog in housing allocation, particularly concerning the 1996/7 housing list. To address this, they have implemented the following actions:

• *Prioritization of 1996-1999 applicants:* The Housing Allocation Policy specifically addresses this backlog in Section 12.2. It mandates that 40% of housing allocations in all departmental projects be reserved for applicants from the 1996-1999 waiting list. This prioritization aims to rectify the long-standing delay in providing housing to these individuals. • *Development of a Housing Allocation Policy:* The department has formulated a comprehensive Housing Allocation Policy to guide the housing allocation process in Gauteng. This policy promotes transparency, accountability, and fairness in allocating housing, reducing the potential for irregular allocations and ensuring that the backlog is addressed systematically.

*Additional Key Actions Include the following:*

• Providing clear management guidance on the housing allocation process in Gauteng. • Recording housing demands within the Gauteng City Region to enhance allocation efficiency. • Offering effective solutions to challenges related to housing allocations. • Combating corruption by promoting transparency and accountability among government officials.

*(b) Actions taken by the Government to assist the Gauteng Provincial Executive in addressing the housing crisis:*

Actions taken to assist the Gauteng Provincial Department include:

• *Funding:* The national government provides funding to provincial governments for housing development and infrastructure. This funding is crucial for Gauteng to implement its housing programs and address the backlog. • *Policy Framework:* The national government sets the overall policy framework for housing in South Africa. This framework guides provincial governments in developing their housing policies and strategies. • *Oversight:* The national government oversees the implementation of housing programs by provincial governments, ensuring that funds are used effectively and that housing targets are met. • *Collaboration:* The national and provincial governments collaborate on various housing initiatives, sharing best practices and coordinating efforts to address the housing crisis.

*QUESTION 6 – MINISTER ON THE PROVISION OF HUMAN SETTLEMENTS TO PEOPLE WHO DO NOT QUALIFY FOR RDP HOUSES*

A *serviced site* is a plot of land that has been prepared for residential construction by providing essential services such as water, sanitation, electricity, and access to roads.

In rural areas, this may include water-harvesting systems and ventilated improved pit latrine toilets.

*Criteria for accessing a serviced site:*

• *Income:* Individuals across all income groups are eligible to access a serviced site. The allocation process and cost vary based on income level:

o *Households with incomes less than R3,500:* Allocated a serviced site free of charge, provided they meet the subsidy program's requirements. o *Households with incomes between R3,501 and R22,000:* Required to purchase the site at a predefined input cost, which can be reduced by the amount of the First Home Finance Subsidy they qualify for. o *Households with incomes above R22,000:* Required to purchase the serviced site at the input cost plus a prescribed mark-up.

• *Residency and Ownership:* The individual must lawfully reside in South Africa or possess a permanent residence permit. They should not have owned a fixed residential property previously. • *Land Restitution Beneficiaries:* Individuals who have benefited from the Land Restitution Programme may also be eligible for a serviced site.

(a) *Plans to Provide Serviced Sites to Private Individuals*

The government does have plans to provide serviced sites to private individuals who cannot qualify for Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) houses. These plans are anchored in the Housing Code Policy and the Integrated Residential Development Programme (IRDP), which provide various subsidies regulated by the South African Constitution. The First Home Finance subsidy program accommodates those earning above R3,500 by providing financial assistance to eligible individuals in the gap market, typically those with incomes between R3,501 and R22,000, to purchase their first residential property. This assistance is structured in a way that aligns with their income level and affordability.

*Specific provisions for those earning above R3,500:*

Minister of Human Settlements Mmamoloko Kubayi will tomorrow, Thursday, 10 October 2024, brief members of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), through a virtual platform, on some of her key responsibilities as assigned to her by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The briefing will take place against the background of oral replies to members of the NCOP, which will cover a wide range of issues related to human settlements development including efforts to deliver large human settlements projects , with a particular focus on Gauteng as well as efforts to hold contractors in the sector accountable and tackle challenges related to securing land for human settlements

The Minister will also brief members of parliament in the NCOP on efforts to improve policy development in the Human Settlements sector through improved research and planning capabilities.

Details for the virtual briefing:

DATE : Thursday, 10 October 2024 TIME : 14h00

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

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

Minister of Human Settlements Mmamoloko Kubayi will tomorrow, Thursday, 10 October 2024, brief members of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), through a virtual platform, on some of her key responsibilities as assigned to her by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The briefing will take place against the background of oral replies to members of the NCOP, which will cover a wide range of issues related to human settlements development including efforts to deliver large human settlements projects , with a particular focus on Gauteng as well as efforts to hold contractors in the sector accountable and tackle challenges related to securing land for human settlements

The Minister will also brief members of parliament in the NCOP on efforts to improve policy development in the Human Settlements sector through improved research and planning capabilities.

Details for the virtual briefing:

DATE : Thursday, 10 October 2024 TIME : 14h00

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

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

The Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, will tomorrow, Thursday, 10 October 2024 address the second day of a three-day Inaugural South African National Urban Forum on the Global Habitat and Urban Agenda and the South African Urban Policy.

The address will take place during the Urban October month and three days after World Habitat Day celebrated under the theme: “Engaging the Youth to Create a Better Urban Future”.

Minister Kubayi’s address will focus on “The Global Habitat and Urban Agenda and the South African Urban Policy”.

The Forum is a collaborative effort between the Departments of Human Settlements, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, South African Cities Network, and The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and gathers key social partners to address the challenges and leverage opportunities of rapid urbanisation in South Africa.

The objective of the Forum is to highlight the strategic importance of managing rapid urbanisation in the context of also responding to other mega trends such as climate change, smart mobility, technology. It will facilitate dialogue among government, civil society, private sector, and community organizations to promote sustainable urban development.

The department has, over the current financial year, ending in June 2025, allocated R8.7 billion allocated towards the Urban Settlement Development Grant (USDG), a conditional capital allocation to all metropolitan municipalities, including Gauteng’s three metros, i.e., the City of Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni and City of Tshwane to undertake bulk and related infrastructure projects.

The Minister’s message to the delegates is expected to be on the effective use of resources to municipalities to accelerate the delivery of basic services, upgrading of informal settlements, and proactive measures to prevent disasters caused by floods and fires.

The National Forum is a precursor to the Twelfth Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12), that Minister Kubayi is scheduled to participate in, convened by the (UN-Habitat) that will take place in Cairo, Egypt, from 4 to 8 November 2024, returning to the African continent after more than 20 years after its inception in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2002.

Details are as follows:

Date : Tomorrow, Thursday, 10 October 2024 Time : 08h30 Venue : The Capital On The Park, Sandton, Johannesburg.

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

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

Press Release Date: 

he Deputy Minister of Human Settlements, Tandi Mahambehlala will from tomorrow, 08 to 11 October 2024 join the Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements for an oversight visit to Kwa-Zulu Natal to assess progress in the implementation of human settlement’s programmes and projects in the province.

As part of the oversight, the Committee will visit and experience first-hand the implementation of different types of human settlements projects at various municipalities.

Details are as follows:

DAY ONE Date: Tuesday, 08 October 2024 Time: 14:00 Projects to be visited in City of Umhlathuze – Empangeni • Empangeni IRDP Phase 1C • Empangeni IRDP Phase 2 - Servicing of sites • Dumisani Makhaye Village Phase 6 & 8 IRDP

DAY TWO – ACTIVITY 1 Date: Wednesday, 09 October 2024 Time: 09:00 - 13:00 Projects to be visited at Maphumulo Local Municipality • Qadi Rural Housing Project • Maqumbi Rural Housing Project

DAY TWO – ACTIVITY 2 Date: Wednesday, 09 October 2024 Time: 14:00 - 16:30 Projects to be visited at KwaDukuza Local Municipality • Sihle Phakathi Informal Settlement Upgrade • Steve Biko Informal Settlement Upgrade

DAY THREE Date: Thursday, 10 October 2024 Time: 14:00 - 16:00 Projects to be visited in eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality • Red Cliff Housing Project • Umbhayi Housing Project

DAY THREE Date: Friday, 11 October 2024 Time: 09:00 - 13:00 Projects to be visited in eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality • Umlazi Township – Glebelands Hostels • Donnelly Housing Project • Phoenix (Project with Asbestos to be removed) • Cornubia- Housing Project Members of the media are requested to RSVP with Isaac Skhosana on 082 280 5193 or Isaac.Skhosana@dhs.gvo.za

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

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

Mangaung- Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, convened an important second meeting, yesterday, Thursday 03 October 2024, with Members of Executive Councils (MECs) responsible for Human Settlements across South Africa, focusing on the 2024/2025 human settlements priorities.

This meeting, the second in the seventh administration, included mayors and MMCs for Human Settlements in metropolitan municipalities and representatives from the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) to tackle key critical areas, including prioritizing vulnerable groups in house allocation, the title deeds restoration programme, housing for military veterans, emergency housing, and an update on the Human Settlements White Paper.

Comprehensive presentations were made on each of these critical areas, demonstrating the Minister's commitment to driving meaningful change in human settlements. This collaborative effort with MECs and SALGA representatives aims to accelerate progress towards achieving the 2024/2025 priorities and beyond.

Minister Kubayi launched the meeting by introducing the department's plan to enhance natural disaster response, a critical move amidst South Africa's escalating natural disaster crisis that severely impacts government services, particularly in Human Settlements as they leave families homeless and destitute.

To address this, the Minister announced that the department intends to partner with traditional leaders, utilizing geo-mapping to identify disaster-resilient areas suitable for human settlements development.

This collaborative initiative aims to enable traditional leaders to identify safe land parcels for settlement purposes and avoid disaster-prone areas in vulnerable provinces. The department intends to pilot this approach in rural KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo provinces, paving the way for proactive disaster mitigation and sustainable human settlements.

By leveraging geo-mapping technology, the department aims to inform decision makers to make better land allocation decisions, ensuring the safety and well-being of communities.

“We cannot be chasing after or reacting to disasters. We must be proactive and put measures in place to mitigate future disasters”, said Minister Kubayi.

“Climate change is upon us, and we should be better prepared and be in a position to respond accordingly”, continued Minister Kubayi.

Minister Kubayi also underscored the importance of building integrated communities including rural areas saying, “Our human settlements should be where people are, feel safe and have access to economic opportunities and social amenities”.

Accordingly, the government has availed resources to build social amenities in rural areas including community halls and other facilities to encourage development within the communities.

TOWARDS THE FINAL 2024-2029 MEDIUM-TERM DEVELOPMENT PLAN

A major focus was on the draft 2024-2029 Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP), a 5-year plan, outlining sector targets for housing delivery in the 7th administration.

Yet to be considered by Cabinet, the plan seeks to develop liveable neighbourhoods in rural and urban environments, achieve spatial transformation and increase access to adequate housing through various programmes such as fully subsidized houses (BNG), social housing and affordable housing.

Thus, between 2024 and 2029 the current draft indicates that the department plans to deliver 237 000 units, 314 000 serviced sites, 15 000 social rental units, 150 000 units for the missing middle through First Home Finance and upgrade over 4000 informal settlements.

UPDATE ON DRAFT WHITE PAPER FOR HUMAN SETTLEMENTS

Additionally, the meeting discussed the finalisation of the White Paper for Human Settlements. MINMEC was informed that extensive consultations have been undertaken to ensure that all sectors of the community took part in shaping the new human settlements policy. Sectors that were consulted include NGOs, civil society, labour, academics, developers and contractors, and identified government departments.

Approved by the Cabinet in 2023 for public consultation, the draft White Paper seeks to address the prevailing gaps and inconsistencies in the housing and human settlements sector by responding comprehensively to contemporary sector reforms.

The draft White Paper will be presented to the Cabinet for approval.

Once approved, a nationwide awareness campaign will be launched to educate the public on the policy's key points through various media channels.

RESPONSE TO EMERGENCY HOUSING

The approval of the Emergency Housing Framework was discussed, with MINMEC stressing the need to clarify roles and responsibilities since the national department has assumed responsibility.

MINMEC welcomed a briefing on the Emergency Framework developed to ensure immediate response to people affected by disasters.

MINMEC adopted a proposal outlining disaster response protocols, dividing responsibilities between the National Department of Human Settlements, provinces, and metros based on disaster severity.

Significant and severe disasters, affecting 51 to 100 or more households, will be jointly responded to by the National Department and provinces/metropolitan areas, while minimal and minor disasters, impacting 1 to 50 households, will be addressed by provinces working with metros.

In response to disasters, the Emergency Housing Guidelines provide four key interventions: restoration, rebuilding, relocation, and repairs.

However, MINMEC emphasized the need to address historic disasters that occurred from 2019 to April 2024, which have affected numerous households, with estimated damages totalling R1 billion.

HOUSING FOR MILITARY VETERANS

MINMEC has resolved to accelerate the delivery of housing for military veterans, aligning with cabinet-approved initiatives.

To achieve this, provinces will implement several strategies, including availing serviced sites for employed military veterans to build their own homes, providing Breaking New Grounds (BNG) housing units for unverified military veterans or their dependents, and assisting military veterans earning R125,000 per annum through First Home Finance.

Additionally, existing homes will be renovated by converting portions into additional bedrooms. These comprehensive measures aim to provide suitable housing support to military veterans, ensuring their well-being and recognition for their service.

RESPONSE TO VULNERABLE GROUPS

MINMEC has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing vulnerable groups, specifically senior citizens and individuals with disabilities, in the allocation of housing.

Minister Kubayi and MECs have consistently emphasized the importance of prioritizing senior citizens, and to date, 287,368 beneficiaries aged 70 and above have been approved on the National Housing Needs Register and linked to projects. Individuals with disabilities also remain a key focus area for the department.

To ensure effective support, MINMEC has resolved that all provinces must provide a list of individuals aged 70 and above to facilitate government assistance in providing adequate shelter.

This initiative aligns with South Africa's housing policy, which recognizes the need to address the housing needs of older persons and individuals with disabilities as a priority.

By prioritizing these vulnerable groups, the department aims to ensure their well-being and dignity

TITLE DEEDS RESTORATION PROGRAMME

MINMEC has resolved to boost title deed delivery by seeking an exemption under section 55 of the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA) from Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) for existing townships.

This exemption, however, will exclude townships or houses located in flood-prone areas or those that may disrupt traffic flow.

Following yesterday’s MINMEC meeting, a performance review Ministerial meeting will convene later today with the Free State Provincial Department of Human Settlements and Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality to discuss key performance indicators and progress on housing delivery.

This meeting aims to address concerns such as the slow pace of issuing title deeds, removal of asbestos roofs, and unblocking of stalled projects.

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

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

Minister of Human Settlements Mmamoloko Kubayi will on Monday, 07 October 2024 launch the Human Settlements Research Strategy in Kempton Park, City of Ekurhuleni.

The research strategy provides direction and identifies the long, medium, and short-term timelines of research activities.

The objective of the launch is to set up partnerships with research institutions within the built environment and the human settlements sector. It also aims to outline collaborative arrangements and roles and responsibilities of partnering stakeholders.

During the launch, the department will unveil a Human Settlements Research Repository web portal to store and disseminate all the research work conducted within the Human Settlement sector. It is also expected that academic institutions will use the platform to share their research materials.

The launch coincides with the World Habitat Day, which is celebrated around the world on the first Monday of October.

Coupled with this launch, the department is also launching the Urban October month with this year’s theme: “Engaging the Youth to Create a Better Urban Future”.

Details are as follows

Date: Monday, 07 October 2024 Time: 08h00 (members of the media to arrive at 7h30) Venue: Radisson Hotel, Kempton Park, City of Ekurhuleni.

Members of the media are requested to RSVP with Tebogo Mosima at Tebogo.mosima@dhs.gov.za or 072 171 1021.

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

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

Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, will convene a meeting on Thursday, 03 October 2024, with Provincial MECs responsible for Human Settlements, Executive Mayors, and representatives from the South African Local Government Association (SALGA).

This meeting marks the second gathering in the 7th administration, aiming to discuss progress made towards implementing the 2024/2025 human settlements priorities.

Central to the discussion will be the prioritization of vulnerable groups in the allocation of houses, the title deeds restoration program, military veterans housing, emergency housing, and an update on the Human Settlements White Paper.

To support these programmes, the department has been allocated over R30.1 billion in conditional grants. The allocated funds will be distributed as follows: R4.5 billion towards upgrading Informal Settlements, R8.7 billion for Metro's Urban Settlements Development Grant, and R13.7 billion transferred to provinces through the Human Settlements Development Grant.

With these resources, the department targets delivering over 20,000 housing units and 35,000 serviced stands to empower individuals to build their own homes.

Additionally, Minister Kubayi will convene a performance review meeting with Free State Province and Mangaung Metro on Friday, 04 October 2024. This gathering follows the successful meeting with Gauteng and its metros in August 2024, marking the second performance review with Provincial Metros.

The media is invited for a photo opportunity, video capturing and doorstep interview as follows:

Date: Thursday, 03 August 2024
Time: 09h00 (members of the media to arrive at 08h00)
Venue: President Hotel and Conference Centre, Bloemfontein

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

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