Residents in Lawley are now proud homeowners after the City of Johannesburg handed over 1,013 title deeds earlier today in a landmark event aimed at restoring dignity and securing tenure for beneficiaries.
The handover was led by Executive Mayor Dada Morero alongside MMC for Human Settlements Mlungisi Mabaso, with Ward 121 Councillor Khazamula Chauke welcoming officials and community members at the ceremony.
Opening the event, Chauke described the occasion as a long-awaited milestone for residents. “Today is a big day that the people of Lawley have been longing for. Together with the Mayor and MMC, we are here to hand over title deeds to residents. I want you all to know that Ward 121 proudly welcomes you and I thank all those who contributed to making the initiative a success,” he said.
Mabaso highlighted the significance and scale of the programme: “We are handing out 1,013 title deeds, and we are still left with about 3,900 more to distribute. This is the first time we hand over 1,013 title deeds in a single event, and it starts here in Johannesburg South, Lawley. This shows that our government is committed to serving the community,” he said.
Mayor Morero emphasised that the handover forms part of government’s broader commitment to improving people’s lives. “We are restoring the dignity of our people as we promised them. We delivered their houses, and now we are handing over title deeds. Government is at work, and we will continue to improve the quality of life for our people,” he said.
For many residents, the moment was deeply emotional, marking the end of years of uncertainty and waiting. According to Velile Patrick Kopane, receiving the title deed meant security and stability for their family: “I have been waiting for this for many years. Today I finally feel like a true owner of my home. This means security for my children and their future.”
Another resident, Colgate Mahlangu described the handover as life-changing. “This is more than just a piece of paper-it’s freedom. Now I can improve my home and plan for the future,” he said.
Constance Sibongile Khumalo stated, “I never thought I would live to see this day. I am so grateful to finally have my title deed in my hands.”
The City has indicated that the Lawley handover is part of a broader rollout, with thousands more title deeds expected to be issued.
