Metsimaholo Local Municipality  has joined hands with the provincial department of co-operative governance, human settlements and traditional affairs to provide decent homes for the people of Zamdela.

The partnership has developed a project called the Community Residential Units (CRU), which seeks to transform the housing system in the province.

The project which is expected to cost R116-million aims to complete 96 housing units of the envisaged 392 in the first phase by the end of June. The units will be occupied by renting residents who are already on the waiting list.

The units are also meant to make way for the intended demolition of the old apartheid government single male hostels which used to house migrant workers in the township.

Metsimaholo executive mayor, Brutus Mahlaku,  said apart from attending to the challenge of housing shortages, the project also helped to create a number of jobs for local people during the construction phase of the project.

“This is another good story to tell in this municipality. The units are of high standard and comprise of features never seen before in the entire country,” said Mahlaku.

He said the residential units, which come in one and two bedroom pieces, are unique in that they boast a fitted mini bar fridge, wall wardrobes, a two plate stove,  have a toilet, a separate bathroom and shower. It also have floor tiles throughout and have been fitted with burglar bars on every window.

“We continue to endeavour to provide our people with their most basic needs like houses, and ensure we deliver promptly on the promise we made to them,” he said.

Once completed, the whole area housing the units will be paved, and there are plans to include playgrounds for the children of tenants. The municipality also intends to fence the units.

The units will also boast 6mm thick shatter proof windows which cannot be easily broken.

“Together we are moving South Africa forward, and as the municipality we are proud to be trendsetters in the provision of decent, modern, comfortable living spaces for the people in our area,” he said.

Mahlaku expressed satisfaction that the construction is continuing speedily and houses will soon be occupied by residents.

“The first tenants will move in just after the completion of the first phase in June, and thereafter the rest of the units will be occupied as soon as they are done,” he said.

Residents of Zamdela reacted with optimism.