On Wednesday 2 March 2022, Western Cape Minister of Human Settlements, Tertuis Simmers, assisted seven Mamre residents to become first time, legal and fully-fledged property owners, when he handed over their title deeds. Mamre is one of twenty-four ‘Act 9 of1987’ rural areas in South Africa, which meant that residents could not by law own land within the area. Simmers said: “The handing over of these title deeds is empowerment in action, a sit reverses a painful law, that sought to keep ownership out of the hands of our people. It was pleasing to be part of this historic occasion and heart-warming to witness the gratitude from the beneficiaries.”
One of the beneficiaries, Juliet Adams (67) said: “This is an immense moment for me which I am truly grateful for. We’ve already encountered a few disputes, but this document puts everything to rest and now we can move forward. I thank everyone who made it possible.” Another couple, Justin and Bridgette Robertson, who also received their title deed to a vacant property were filled with emotion. Mr Robertson said: “We’ve been waiting for this document, as now we can finally build the home we’ve always wanted. It is difficult to express how happy and thankful we are, but this is a huge highlight in our lives. It allows us to fulfil a long-life dream.”
Raise, Juliet Adams and MEC Tertuis
Simmer
