MEC of COGHSTA, Speedy Mashilo cutting the ribbon.
About 115 houses across the Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality (CALM) were renovated, with 76 of them located in Mantjolo Village.
The renovation was a partnership between CALM and the Department of Co-Operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), marking an important milestone toward improving community safety and living standards.
The initiative focused on replacing hazardous asbestos roofs with safe and durable corrugated iron. The homes were also fully plastered, both inside and out, dramatically improving their appearance and providing a greater sense of dignity for the residents.
In a moving gesture, two of the newly renovated homes were handed over fully furnished to particularly vulnerable households—one to an elderly resident and another to a child-headed household. This act highlights the government’s commitment to supporting those most in need within the community.
The handover ceremony was a well-attended affair, highlighting the strong collaboration behind the project. Dignitaries present included the MEC of COGHSTA, Speedy Mashilo; the Executive Mayor of Gert Sibande District Municipality, Cllr Walter Mngomezulu; and the Executive Mayor of CALM, Cllr Mbuso Magubane.
The presence of traditional leaders and members of the Provincial Legislature also demonstrated a united front in the shared goal of community development.
This project is part of a larger government effort to restore dignity through safe housing and strengthen the crucial partnerships between government bodies and traditional authorities.
