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What Happened
On 29–30 January 2026, Eastern Cape MEC for Public Works, Infrastructure and Human Settlements, Siphokazi Lusithi, visited the Joe Gqabi District to oversee school readiness and hand over title deeds to beneficiaries in Maletswai.
On the first day, MEC Lusithi visited Ntlalo High School in Steynsburg to evaluate infrastructure and provide support to learners, including school shoes, sanitary towels, calculators, and dignity packs.
On the second day, she handed over 211 title deeds to beneficiaries from the Dukathole 743 and Dukathole Area 13 housing projects. The handover forms part of the national Title Deeds Fridays Campaign.
Official Response
“This is about restoring dignity and formalising ownership for families who have waited for years,” the department said. The MEC also conducted home visits to elderly recipients before a public handover ceremony at the Maletswai community hall.
Community Impact
The event directly benefits:
- 211 households gaining legal ownership of their homes
- 50 learners receiving support materials
- Stakeholders collaborating on improving school conditions
The visit aimed to strengthen ties between government, schools, and communities.
What Happens Next
- Title deeds are now formally registered to beneficiaries
- Ntlalo High School’s needs assessment will inform future infrastructure planning
- Continued Title Deeds Fridays handovers expected in other districts
Confirmed Details
- Date: 29–30 January 2026
- Location: Steynsburg and Maletswai, Joe Gqabi District
- Title Deeds: 211 handed over
- Beneficiaries: From Dukathole 743 and Dukathole Area 13 projects
- School support: 50 learners received supplies
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