“As we celebrate 30 years of democracy, I couldn’t have asked for a better milestone than owning land,” said 59-year-old Sophie Manese Mzamo, moments after receiving her title deed from Johannesburg’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Human Settlements, Cllr Mlungisi Mabaso, at Riverside View, north of Johannesburg, on Wednesday, 25 September 2024.
Mzamo was one of 704 Riverside View residents who received their title deeds from MMC Mabaso.
“This means my children now have a place they can truly call home. Even if something happens to me, no one can take it away from them,” said Mzamo, who has lived in the area for more than 15 years. She expressed her joy at finally owning her home.
“To those still waiting for their title deeds, I encourage you to be patient and trust that your time will come. I’m deeply grateful to the City of Johannesburg for what they have done for us and our families,” she added.
Speaking at the Riverside View Development, Extension 96, in Ward 70, MMC Mabaso reaffirmed the City of Johannesburg’s commitment to ensuring the security of its residents. He highlighted that land ownership is enshrined as a fundamental right in the Constitution, a right the City upholds by distributing title deeds to residents.
“Today, we are restoring the dignity of our citizens,” said MMC Mabaso. He stressed that owning a title deed provides peace of mind, as it protects residents from the threat of evictions or land invasions.
MMC Mabaso also emphasised the City’s continued efforts to grant legal ownership to residents, empowering them to invest in and improve their properties.
Thirty-seven-year-old Phumla Zigogwana, another recipient, shared her relief and joy: “I was very worried about what would happen to my children if I were no longer here. Now, they have a place they can call home, and their future is secure.”
The event marked a significant moment for the Riverside View community as families now hold the legal right to their homes — an achievement that brings pride, security, and hope for future generations.
Written by Luyanda Lunika
25/09/2024
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