The Western Cape MEC for Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, has visited the Garden Route to hand over title deeds and houses in George and Mossel Bay.
The Minister and the community of Toekoms in Great Brak River, Mossel Bay, were in high spirits as 10 beneficiaries finally received their title deeds on Friday.
The MEC was joined by Executive Mayor Dirk Kotzé, who thanked Simmers, saying: “Together with the community of Toekoms, we are thankful to once again be working with the Western Cape Government (WCG) to make a difference in Mossel Bay.
“We know that not only do these title deeds empower the beneficiaries here today, but they also empower their loved ones and secure a better future for their children.”
At the Metro Grounds Housing Development in George, 18 houses and title deeds were handed over.
The Metro Grounds Housing Development will deliver 436 housing opportunities upon completion.
Simmers took the opportunity to announce that his department is planning to build another 196 units at this development.
“We share the excitement of this community, and we are thankful for what our municipality, in partnership with the WCG, has been able to provide to these deserving beneficiaries,” said Executive Mayor of George Municipality, Jackie von Brandis.
Meanwhile, Simmers acknowledged that occasions like these are not possible without partnerships.
“It is encouraging to witness how the Western Cape Government, municipalities like Mossel Bay and George, and all relevant stakeholders, can work together to improve the lives of the people of the Western Cape.”
On both occasions, local law practitioners were present, who assisted beneficiaries with drawing up wills at no charge.
The provincial department believes that it was befitting that the houses and title deeds were handed over last week, particularly during Heritage Month and Free Wills Week.
The WCG is of the view that the handover of title deeds means more than just becoming the owner of a house but also empowers the title holder to ensure a better future for their loved ones.
“My department’s primary focus is to uplift our communities, especially poorer communities, and to build infrastructure that provides residents with the opportunity for a better, prosperous future,” said Simmers. – SAnews.gov.za
