History was made when the National Department of Housing and Provincial Department of Local Government and Housing handed over the Breaking New Ground (BNG) houses to beneficiaries. Addressing the crowds of people during handover in New Rust Township at Gugulethu, The MEC for Local Government and Housing Qubudile Richard Dyantyi said their job is not only to increase the number of houses being built but to build houses that will bring dignity to the beneficiaries.
In September 2004, the National Department of Housing launched its Breaking Ground New Strategy. The new strategy re-evaluated and made recommendations on changing the traditional ways of delivering houses in South Africa. The strategy puts emphasis on the need to achieve a "non -racial integrated society through the development of sustainable settlements and quality housing". BNG houses are part of this strategy.
Mr. Prince Xhanti Sigcawu, General Manager, Thubelisha N2 Gateway Project said they want to turn New Rust Township to a suburban area. "Those who had leave longer in this area will be the first to be accommodated", said Mr. Sigcawu. He said one of the challenges faced was the relocation process as many tenants were not keen to relocate during the development process. Sigcawu also appealed to the communities to be helpful to contractors. Amongst the first beneficiaries was Mrs. Nodoli Evelyn Mali. Tears of joy flowed from her eyes as she stood on the podium to address crowds. "To me this is like a miracle to be given such a gift", said Nodoli.
The MEC for Local Government and Housing Qubudile Richard Dyantyi called on people to stop selling their houses to friends and relatives. According to him this undermines the service delivery. "As government we will have zero tolerance to those beneficiaries who sell their houses and relocate back to the shacks", said Dyantyi.
The BNG House is a state give-away subsidy house given to qualifying beneficiaries. The first of its kind in South Africa will be built in the Western Cape as part of N2 Gateway Project. There are already BNG houses in areas such as Delft and New Rust and more houses are to be built in District Six, Joe Slovo and Boys Town. Unlike the previous 20-34 square meter subsidy houses, the BNG house is a 40 square meter in size and it boosts 2 bedrooms, lounge, open plan kitchen and fitted bath room. This house is also equipped with electricity. The N2 Gateway is a collaborative effort of the National Department of housing, Western Cape Provincial Department of Local Government and Housing and the City of Cape Town.
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