Oudtshoorn, 29 May 2018 – Western Cape Human Settlements Minister, Bonginkosi Madikizela yesterday handed over title deeds to 290 families of a newly established settlement area of Rosevalley in Oudtshoorn.
Addressing a packed to capacity Toekomsrus Community Hall during the event, Madikizela said: “This is the day that all of us here must rejoice as these title deeds are confirming that you are not getting property but also the land that you are occupying.”
“It is the first time that title deeds are issued in about two years after the completion of a housing project. Next time we want to issue title deeds within a year. There are situations where people waited for years to get ownership of their houses; this we don’t want, and we’ll ensure that issuing property ownership is done speedily,” Madikizela added.
He also advised the beneficiaries to safeguard their title deeds. “Keep those title deeds safe, they are your wealth and that of your children.”
Meanwhile, Oudtshoorn Executive Mayor, Cllr. Colan Sylvester in his welcoming address pleaded with the new property owners to please look well after their houses. “These title deeds are not only assurance of property ownership but also restoration of dignity.”
Deputy Mayor, Cllr Noluthando Mwati echoed Mayor Sylvester’s message of preservation of the new properties. “Keep our town clean and keep your houses clean. And please do not sell these houses; also do not build shacks in your new properties.”
One of the beneficiaries, 80-year-old Jan Safers said: “I am happy that I have finally, at my age, been granted evidence that I own a property. I have secured a home, not only for my kids, but also for my grandchildren.”
The Project for which the title deeds were issued was the first phase of three phases of the upgrading of the informal settlement. The last houses were handed over in December 2015. The Second phase has also been completed. Officials have already signed-off for title deeds for the 2nd phase which was completed in December 2017. Third phase is currently under construction with top structures expected to start in August 2018.