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IOL News
4 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Tshwane's social housing projects face challenges from rent boycotts
Recent evictions at Thembelihle Village, a low-cost housing project in Pretoria's CBD, have left residents without a place to call home after they failed to pay rent. Image: Oupa Mokoena / Independent Media Rent boycotts and disruptive behaviour from non-paying tenants are posing significant sustainability challenges to private social housing projects in the City of Tshwane. MMC for Housing and Human Settlements, Aaron Maluleka, has expressed concern that government-initiated housing projects for individuals earning R11,301 to R22,000 monthly are being undermined by tenants' non-payment of rent and disruptive behaviour. This follows the recent eviction of tenants from Thembelihle Village, Tshwane's pioneering social housing project, amid prolonged disputes over rent and soaring electricity costs. Thembelihle Village, a low-cost housing project launched by the government in 2018, has been plagued by issues stemming from tenants' non-payment of rent and utilities, ultimately leading to the property being placed under business rescue. Yeast City Housing NPC, the manager of Thembelihle Village, recently reported that numerous tenants have defaulted on payments since 2019, causing financial strain on utilities, services, and rentals, with outstanding arrears nearing R60 million. Maluleka stated that the townlands social housing project marks a significant milestone in Tshwane's quest for affordable housing solutions. 'This initiative is not merely about constructing buildings, but it is a transformative effort aimed at creating healthier, sustainable, and inclusive communities,' he said. He explained that by offering subsidised rental fees, townlands provide a critical lifeline for individuals and families within the income band of between R1,850 and R22,000 per month, enabling them to access housing that is both affordable and conveniently located near the city centre. He said: 'As urbanisation continues to rise, so does the demand for affordable housing in urban centres. The townlands social housing project responds directly to this need, granting residents the opportunity to live close to their places of work and economic activities, ultimately contributing to the reduction of the housing backlog in our communities.' The project is a collaborative effort between the Social Housing Regulatory Agency and Housing Company Tshwane to improve the quality of life for Tshwane residents. Maluleka noted that while the social housing project marks a fresh start for many, it is crucial to recognise the challenges private social housing initiatives are currently facing. 'The reports of rent boycotts and disruptive behaviour from individuals who evade their rental obligations are concerning. Such actions undermine the sustainability of social housing initiatives and place undue pressure on both the government and responsible tenants striving to fulfil their commitments,' he said. He said his department advocates for a proactive approach in light of these challenges. 'We urge residents who experience a change in their economic circumstances to communicate with our department. Our goal is to redirect assistance to those who need it most, ensuring that no family is left behind during these trying times. The complexity of housing affordability necessitates transparency and cooperation between tenants and housing authorities, as we work together to build a stronger, unified community,' he said. Maluleka called on the public and stakeholders to support the city's efforts to tackle homelessness and address long-standing housing issues in the municipality. 'The reduction in grant funding for human settlements in metropolitan municipalities diminishes our financial bandwidth, necessitating a sharper focus on essential trading services, including energy, water, sanitation and solid waste management,' he said. [email protected]
The Citizen
30-04-2025
- General
- The Citizen
Eersterust residents receive title deeds
Residents in Eersterust received official documents for their homes during a delivery drive-by on Tuesday. According to MMC for Housing and Human Settlements Aaron Maluleka, residents can expect the issuing of more title deeds to beneficiaries as part of the ongoing commitment to support the community. This comes after Maluleka launched a drive-by delivery of title deeds initiative aimed at enhancing home ownership and property security in Eersterust. Spokesperson Melandré Frost said community leaders and residents celebrated the milestone in property rights and housing stability as title deeds were delivered to five homes for the launch. 'This initiative not only reflects the metro's dedication to improving homeownership within the Eersterust area but also aims to educate residents about the legal responsibilities and rights associated with property ownership.' She said during the delivery Maluleka emphasised the importance of safekeeping title deeds, as they represent the legal ownership of property. 'It is crucial for homeowners to understand that losing or misplacing a title deed can result in significant costs, about R3 000 and can complicate property rights,' said Maluleka. He urged all homeowners to take proactive measures to protect their documents and highlighted the significance of the law of succession, reinforcing the need for residents to draft valid wills. 'Having a legally binding will ensures that your property is passed on according to your wishes. This protects your legacy and secures the future of your loved ones,' he explained. Frost said Maluleka further addressed the importance of homeowners insuring their properties against potential natural disasters. 'He advised residents that it is essential to protect the structure of their home with a reputable insurance company because such measures are crucial for safeguarding one's investment and providing peace of mind in uncertain times.' She concluded that more title deeds will be available for collection at the Human Settlements Department offices in various regions, with additional opportunities to receive title deeds during public meetings scheduled soon. Local ward councillor, Benjamin Lawrence expressed gratitude on behalf of the community and emphasised the importance of bringing dignity to the residents of Eersterust. 'Some residents have been in their homes with no official documentation for many years, I am very happy for this initiative by the metro.' He said Eersterust councillors hope to continue working with the metro to restore the dignity of the residents. Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to bennittb@ or phone us on 083 625 4114. For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord's websites: Rekord East For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
