By Levy Masiteng
Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane handed over more than 300 title deeds to homeowners in Boitumelong Ext 5 in Bloemhof, North West, on Friday, as part of the department’s title deed restoration programme.
The handover was attended by Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Acting District Executive Mayor Duiker, and Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality Mayor Motlhabi.
“This title deed confirms legal ownership of your home, protects you against any illegal eviction or occupation of the property, bringing you and your grandchildren peace of mind,” Simelane told 73-year-old widow and pensioner Mitah Makeleni, a grandmother of seven, as she handed over the title deed.
Simelane also urged beneficiaries to care for their government-subsidised (BNG) houses and to have a will in place to avoid disputes after their deaths.
“Gogo Makeleni should draw a will that will assist her grandchildren to avoid them fighting about how the property should be handled in the event she passes away,” Simelane said.
The department said the handover forms part of efforts to fast-track the issuing of title deeds, safeguard security of tenure, and restore the dignity of beneficiaries.
“This title deed is not just a piece of paper. It confirms that this house legally belongs to you, protects you against illegal eviction or occupation, and gives you and your family peace of mind,” Simelane told the recipients.
She warned residents to be alert to scams and said recipients are not required to pay for their title deeds.
“Government is investing and paying to ensure that we assist our government subsided (BNG) homes beneficiaries to get their title deeds, and this we do from registration to the transfer of the property into their names, thus restoring your dignity and securing the future of your household and future generations,” Simelane said.
“When people have title deeds, they have dignity, security and an asset that can change their lives and the lives of future generations.”
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