By Levy Masiteng
Following the recent launch of a new social housing project that revolutionises affordable living in Joburg’s CBD, the Johannesburg Social Housing Company (Joscho) says it has a number of similar housing projects in the pipeline.
Joscho spokesperson Esethu Njenjani told Inside Metros that the upcoming developments included the 50 Durban Street project and the Riverside Phase 3 project in the north of Johannesburg.
Both projects would provide affordable housing to more residents, “continuing our mission of addressing the city’s housing backlog”, he said.
He was speaking after the launch of the Ridge on Abel Street Social Housing Project in Berea over the weekend.
The Ridge offers 155 rental units, 144 bachelor apartments and 11 one-bedroom units. They are all targeted at low- to mid-income residents.
The rental prices for this high-rise social housing project ranges from R1100 to R1900, making it an affordable housing solution for many in the inner city.
“This project is not the first of its kind as Joscho has developed multiple affordable housing accommodations within the city.
“The Ridge project will add to the number of affordable rental units, standing out for its strategic location, enhanced security features and proximity to essential services, making it a valuable addition to Johannesburg’s social housing landscape,” he said.
Asked to comment on how severe the housing backlog was in the city, Njenjani said it was massive.
“There is a huge demand for affordable housing in Johannesburg and Joscho is doing its best to provide affordable rental accommodation to meet this demand.
“Our developments, like The Ridge and upcoming projects, are part of a broader strategy to address the housing needs of the city’s low- and middle-income residents,” he said.
Njenjani said that all the units at the Ridge had been rented out and applications were closed.
The housing company had issued a QR code for applications at end of August, and now it was finalising the verification of documents and the allocation of units.
At the Ridge, Joscho was not only providing houses and had committed to support tenants through ongoing training on sustainable living practices.
When asked what he meant by this, Njenjani said: “This will include enhancing tenants’ wellbeing through workshops on energy efficiency, water conservation and responsible financial management.”
“We also offer support to tenants in managing their rental payments, ensuring they maintain good standing and contribute to the long-term success of the developments,” he said.
Johannesburg mayor Dada Morero, who attended the launch, said: “We look forward to welcoming new tenants to their new homes and creating a vibrant and inclusive community that truly embodies the spirit of Johannesburg.”
INSIDE METROS