Mega-Housing Project Launched in Northern Cape – President Ramaphosa Addresses Roodepan Community

Roodepan, Kimberley – Thursday, 18 January 2024

President Cyril Ramaphosa officially launched the largest housing project in the history of the Northern Cape today. Speaking in Roodepan, Kimberley, the President highlighted the significance of the R1 billion human settlements project aimed at addressing the housing needs of communities across the province.

Over the next 12 to 18 months, the ambitious program aims to construct more than 4,000 houses in various municipalities, contributing significantly to reducing the housing backlog in the Northern Cape. President Ramaphosa emphasized the project’s commitment to prioritizing vulnerable groups, including the elderly, child-headed households, military veterans, and persons with disabilities.

“This mega-housing project is not only about providing homes; it’s about creating opportunities for the people of the Northern Cape,” stated President Ramaphosa. The initiative aims to generate employment and business opportunities throughout its lifecycle, with a particular focus on women and youth-owned businesses.

Importantly, the project seeks to address the housing needs of the ‘missing middle’—individuals with a form of income but who do not qualify for subsidized housing or traditional home loans. Additionally, funds will be allocated to eradicate informal settlements and upgrade inadequate housing structures.

President Ramaphosa assured the community that strict measures are in place to ensure the timely and efficient delivery of these housing projects, emphasizing adherence to quality construction standards and zero tolerance for corruption.

Reflecting on the progress made since achieving democracy 30 years ago, President Ramaphosa celebrated the improvements in housing access. Recent census results indicated that nearly 9 out of every 10 households now live in formal dwellings, a significant leap from the 1996 census.

The President acknowledged the historical injustices, quoting Sol Plaatje, and highlighted the government’s ongoing commitment to correcting past indignities. Since democracy, over 4.7 million housing opportunities have been provided, granting security of tenure and transferring title deeds to pre-1994 government rental house occupants.

President Ramaphosa concluded his address by commending the collaborative effort between the Northern Cape Provincial Government, National Treasury, and the Development Bank of Southern Africa in securing funding for the project. He expressed hope for a brighter future for the people of the Northern Cape, emphasizing the importance of this initiative in securing homes for thousands of families.

For more information, visit www.thepresidency.gov.za.