Nelson Mandela Bay Registers Thousands of Backyard Dwellers

Nelson Mandela Bay has entered a new period of firm, accountable leadership. In the past 12 months, the Executive Mayor has driven a major intervention to identify and register backyard dwellers across the Metro.

This programme tackles a long-standing housing challenge. It also represents the first time the issue has been addressed at this scale. Teams now visit neighbourhoods across the city to verify details and record residents living in informal backyard setups.

The Mayor says the goal is simple: restore dignity and bring fairness to housing processes. The updated records feed directly into the Housing Needs Register. This ensures more transparent allocation, better planning, and a clear path for residents hoping to access future housing opportunities.

A More Accurate and Fair Housing System

Municipal officials confirm that thousands of people have already been recorded. The intervention strengthens the integrity of the Housing Needs Register. It also reduces duplication and prevents unfair advantages.

Residents say the process brings hope. Many had waited for years without knowing whether they appeared on the official list. Now, they can see that the Metro is building a fairer, more accountable system.

The initiative forms part of a broader shift in Nelson Mandela Bay’s approach to service delivery. The Municipality aims to improve data quality, speed up planning, and build stronger relationships with communities.

Building a Metro That Puts People First

The Executive Mayor describes the project as proof of what determined leadership can achieve. The Metro plans to extend the programme to more wards in the coming months. Officials say reliable data is essential for future housing development and infrastructure planning.

Nelson Mandela Bay continues to promote a people-first approach. The Mayor’s office says this work is only the beginning. The long-term goal is a city where fairness, accountability, and dignity guide every major decision.