A 73-year-old resident of Walmer Township in Gqeberha continues to live in a dangerously dilapidated mud structure seven years after he was officially approved for an RDP housing allocation. Fumanekile Booi, who was granted approval by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in 2017, remains in the same sub-standard dwelling while awaiting the delivery of the government-funded home he was promised.
Growing Risks And Safety Concerns
The structural integrity of the home has deteriorated significantly over the years, leaving the elderly resident in a state of constant anxiety. The current living conditions offer little protection against the elements, and the risk of the walls failing remains a primary concern for the occupant.
Every time it rains, I fear the walls will collapse on me. I was told my name is on the list, but seven years have passed.
The situation highlights a persistent struggle for many residents in peripheral townships, where the gap between administrative housing policies and the realities of service delivery has deepened. Local community members and advocates continue to express frustration over the lack of concrete timelines for beneficiaries who have spent nearly a decade on official waiting lists.
Municipal Response To Housing Backlogs
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has acknowledged the ongoing issues surrounding housing delivery and the administrative hurdles affecting project completion. A spokesperson for the municipality confirmed that they are currently investigating the specific causes for the delay in the allocation of this unit.
The department is currently auditing the housing beneficiary list to address irregularities and ensure that those who have waited the longest are prioritised.
This incident reflects a wider crisis within the Eastern Cape’s human settlements sector, where systemic challenges, including budget constraints and corruption, often stall critical infrastructure projects. Municipalities across the region have frequently faced protests from residents who are similarly sidelined by bureaucratic delays and stagnant project timelines. Authorities are expected to provide further updates on the audit process and a revised project schedule as the investigation into the outstanding allocations proceeds.