Calvinia families step into new homes as MEC Vass hands over latest units

A SENSE of celebration swept through a Calvinia community this week as 10 families received the keys to their new homes – the latest milestone in the R1 billion Northern Cape Housing Project.

The MEC for Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Bentley Vass, visited the Hantam Local Municipality on Friday to hand over the newly completed units, part of the ongoing Calvinia 200 Housing Project. He was joined by Hantam mayor Koos Alexander and several councillors.

The project has now delivered 49 houses, providing a permanent roof over the heads of 233 residents, including owners and their dependants.

According to the department, additional units are still under construction, with completed houses being handed over immediately to prevent vandalism and ensure families can move in without delay.

MEC Vass noted that his department is in “regular engagements” with the main contractors to address challenges that have slowed progress and affected delivery timelines.

For many residents, the day marked the end of a long wait. Among the beneficiaries was 61-year-old Christina Katrina Swarts, who said she was grateful to the government for restoring her dignity and providing security and comfort for her family.

To symbolise a fresh start for the new homeowners, MEC Vass also planted trees at several of the properties as part of the department’s beautification initiative.

The Calvinia 200 Housing Project forms part of the provincial government’s broader commitment to expanding access to housing and improving living conditions across the Northern Cape. As construction continues, more families are expected to receive their keys in the coming months.