13/08/2026
A New Chapter of Dignity During Women's Month: Kennedy Road Housing Project Phase 2 Handover
On 13 August 2026, the Minister of Human Settlements, Ms Thembi Simelane, together with the Executive Director of UN-Habitat, Ms Anacláudia Rossbach, accompanied by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Mr Siboniso Duma, and eThekwini Municipality Executive Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, officially handed over completed homes at the Kennedy Road Housing Project, Phase 2 (Barton Place). Also, in attendance was the Chief Director: Human Settlements Programme and Project Management, Mr Thokozani Magagula who represented the Head of Department in his absence, underscoring the department's continued commitment to accelerating housing delivery and improving the lives of communities across the province.
Kennedy Road is one of the largest, densely populated informal settlements within the eThekwini Municipality, home to approximately 3,000 households. The housing development is aimed at improving the living conditions of residents by providing safe, secure and dignified housing opportunities.
The total planned yield for Phase 2 Barton Place is 198 housing units. To date, 117 units have been completed and handed over, while the remaining 81 units are currently under construction.
In a fitting tribute to Women's Month, one of the beneficiaries was a 92-year-old woman, whose resilience and strength embody the spirit of South African women. Overjoyed to receive her new home, she reflected on what this life-changing moment means to her:
“Tonight, I will sleep peacefully without having to worry about fire outbreaks or flooding. It is a complete house, and I am deeply grateful for what the government has done for me, especially at my age.”
Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of ensuring that women, particularly elderly women, have access to safe and secure housing. As South Africa celebrates Women's Month, her journey reflects the dignity, hope and empowerment that sustainable human settlements bring to communities.
The handover marks another important milestone in government's ongoing commitment to providing sustainable human settlements, restoring dignity to communities, and improving the quality of life of the most vulnerable citizens.
