Deputy Mayor Taytya Welcoming Deputy Minister Mahambehlala
Oudtshoorn, 17 June 2025 – The Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality had the honour of welcoming Deputy Minister of Human Settlements, Ms Tandi Mahambehlala, during an official visit on 13 June 2025, for the handover of newly built homes to beneficiaries in Bongolethu, as part of the Bongolethu Consolidation Project.
Upon her arrival at the Oudtshoorn Municipality, the Deputy Minister was received in front of the main building by Deputy Mayor Alderman Mziwoxolo Tyatya, Speaker Suzane Jansen, councillors, and senior municipal officials. The visit began with a formal briefing session in the Council Chambers, led by the Speaker of Council, where Deputy Mayor Tyatya delivered the official welcome. A detailed project presentation was delivered by Ms Lauren Jones, Manager of Human Settlements at the Municipality.
Following the engagement, the delegation proceeded to Bongolethu for the official handover of newly constructed homes that replaced longstanding mud houses. These homes are part of a broader development aimed at improving living conditions for residents. A total of 11 houses were officially handed over, with the remaining units currently under construction. The Human Settlements Department continues to work diligently to complete the remainder of the project, and all remaining houses will be handed over to beneficiaries upon completion.
Deputy Minister Mahambehlala emphasised the importance of not only building houses but also restoring legal ownership to residents. Reflecting on the Dysselsdorp RDP Phase 1 Project, she stated, “A title deed is not just a piece of paper; it gives validation, security, and a sense of ownership to new homeowners. The Title Deed Restoration Programme is just as important as the handover of houses, because it speaks to the lived reality and long-standing plight of the people of South Africa.”
During the briefing session, the Deputy Minister further expressed appreciation for the constructive working relationship between her department and the Municipality, saying that they are delighted to work with the Oudtshoorn Municipality.
In his remarks, Deputy Mayor Tyatya reflected on the deep historical importance of this development, saying that this is more than a construction project. “It represents dignity restored and lives improved.”
As part of the day’s programme, the handover of houses symbolised a step forward in addressing long-standing historical injustices, while a memorial service and wreath-laying honoured the memory of the Bongolethu 3, which is 3 young men who lost their lives during the struggle against apartheid.” He paid tribute to generations past who suffered during the apartheid-era displacements and reinforced the community’s collective memory of their sacrifice.
Deputy Mayor Tyatya also connected the handover to broader themes of remembrance during Youth Month, “As we honour the youth of 1976, we must also remember the Bongolethu 3 — young men who were brutally killed by Apartheid forces in 1985. Their names must be etched in the history of our town and country. Oudtshoorn must be remembered as a place where black, white, and coloured people stood together in the fight for freedom.”
A total of 25 families are set to benefit from this housing development in Bongolethu. The Deputy Mayor praised the persistence of community members past and present who contributed to this achievement, extending congratulations to Ward 4 Councillor Nomsa Jaxa for her resilience, and acknowledging the work of former councillors as well.
He further acknowledged the ongoing support from Deputy Minister Mahambehlala and her consistent presence in Oudtshoorn and backing of initiatives. “We have seen the impact of your efforts, and we are truly grateful. Your dedication does not go unnoticed in our communities.”
The Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality remains committed to advancing inclusive development and ensuring that all residents have access to safe and dignified housing. The Municipality expresses its appreciation to the national Department of Human Settlements for its continued partnership in changing lives and building a better future.
Background
Several plots in Bongolethu were transferred to individuals before 1994. Over time, some beneficiaries developed their properties independently, while others remained undeveloped or were built using mud, resulting in unsafe living conditions.
In 2017, concerns were formally raised with the provincial Department of Human Settlements regarding the deteriorating state of these mud houses. An engineering assessment found that 18 houses needed demolition, 7 were vacant, and 73 required repairs. Affected homeowners signed consent forms for demolition where necessary.
The plots are located across various avenues in Bongolethu, a fully serviced residential area. Following community engagement and verification, the Bongolethu Consolidation Project was initiated. By 2023, formal applications, house plans, title deeds, and powers of attorney were submitted to the province for processing.
To date, 25 new houses have been built, and on 13 June 2025, 11 more were handed over. While progress continues, some families are still waiting, including those who have had to register estates after the passing of loved ones.