The City of Ekurhuleni, together with the Gauteng Department of Housing, handed out over 300 title deeds to the community of Palm Ridge on Friday.

Given Sithole, 48, a resident of Palm Ridge Ext 9 and recipient of a title deed, could not contain his excitement upon receiving his affirmation of home ownership.

“As the head of the house, it’s my responsibility to ensure that my family has a place to call home. We have been staying in this RDP house for 23 years with my wife and three kids and today I’m definitely sure that I have secured a home for them,” said the elated Sithole.

During the title deed handover ceremony, officials encouraged homeowners to safeguard their title deeds, as they can serve as wealth-creating assets and can be used as collateral when applying for loans to pay for school fees or to secure bank loans.

There are approximately 2 000 title deeds that are yet to be handed out to eligible homeowners of Palm Ridge extensions.

It is anticipated that 9 000 title deeds, which are in the possession of the City’s Human Settlements Department, will be handed over to the rightful owners on door-to-door visits by youth brigades to ensure members of the community are given their proof of ownership.

Source: South African Government News Agency