Jubilation was the order of the day for residents of KwaMashu J Section, Ward 45, when four families received keys to their new houses that were built under the R293 Housing Project.

TWO grannies from KwaMashu J Section, Ward 45, were part of benefi ciaries that received new houses during a recent house handover by eThekwini Municipality. Francies Mahlinza, 88, was one of the ecstatic benefi ciaries. “I am 88 years old and I have been living here since 1969 but I have never been this happy. My previous house was dilapidated and had cracks on the hall and the roof was leaking.

If I were young, I would do a traditional dance to show just how happy I am, but my heart is dancing. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this house, may God bless you,” said Mahlinza. Thenjiwe Dlamini received a house on behalf of her 101-year-old granny who is unable to walk. She said the entire family was delighted with the new house as there are eight family members and no one is employed.

Dlamini said the family has been living in the area since 1960. “We are very happy for this house, it is decent and conducive. We will treat it with dignity and respect,” said Dlamini. Another benefi ciary, Sithembile Khoza, explained that their old house was not safe to live in. “There were nine of us living under one roof, life has been very tough. We cannot wait, we are moving in today and have a family celebration planed over the weekend.

We thank everyone who contributed, particularly eThekwini Municipality, Ward Councillor Mafi Zondi and the contractor. The contractor has been very humble and informative about the progression of the project,” explained Khoza.