Minister Delivers Long-Awaited Title Deeds to Walmer Estate Beneficiaries

On Thursday, 20 February the Western Cape Minister of Human Settlements, Bonginkosi Madikizela handed over the title deeds to beneficiaries of Walmer Estate, some of whom have waited for more than 30 years.

The Minister echoed the sentiments of City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member and Ward Councillor Brett Herron and Portfolio Chairperson James Slabbert respectively, by thanking the beneficiaries for their patience and support.  Acknowledging that the road had been a long and difficult one, the Minister however stated, “These title deeds officially makes you property owners which will open doors to becoming financially stable and economically emancipated.” Madikizela further said, “It is only right that those people who have been waiting a long time should receive priority as they are more than deserving of their homes.”

For 86-year-old Mrs Peters it was an emotional day.  “My heart is filled with joy. This piece of paper means that I am finally a home owner and can leave property to my children in time to come,” said an ecstatic Mrs Peters. Another beneficiary was Mrs Fowzia Jacobs (66-years-old), who was accompanied by three of her five sons who bore witness to the momentous occasion.

A number of ‘senior youth’, as the Minister fondly refers to the elderly, were happy to engage with him after proceedings and sat for a group photo where they exchanged banter and expressed their gratitude for “this blessing we’ve been given”.