Eighty-five families from the Onderneeming Phase Four area celebrated a major milestone today as they officially received their Certificates of Title under the Ministry of Housing’s housing programme.

The distribution exercise forms part of the ministry through the Central Housing and Planning Authority’s outreach in Anna Regina, Region Two.

The distribution marks a life-changing turning point for residents who, after years of waiting, have finally formalised ownership of their properties.

Minister of Housing, Collin Croal said that explained that the titles were the direct result of a re-validation exercise conducted by the ministry to clear a backlog caused by historical recording errors.

While 85 families celebrated today, the minister assured other residents in Onderneeming and surrounding areas that the work is not finished.

As part of the ministry’s aggressive housing drive, Minister Croal announced that construction of low- to moderate-income housing units in Region Two will commence shortly.

“We will be building within a block within the Onderneeming phase four area, some moderate income houses. So those will be some three-bedroom houses. And in the Hoff Van Aurich area, the construction is ongoing now. So that’s in the new area that is coming on stream. We will be building some low-income houses there too,” he said.

These projects contribute to the government’s new goal of constructing 40,000 houses across the various regions over this tenure.

“We’re also working in some areas with the AG’s chambers, [and] with lands and surveys to also address the ownership of some of the older areas. Our commitment therefore is that we must have no area left in this period, no area left for which we do not have the proper documentation for ownership. That’s our commitment,” the minister said.

He further disclosed that the upcoming national budget will make provision for direct financial assistance to support citizens with homes.

The minister of housing reminded that even those on part-time work programs can now pre-qualify for low-income mortgages due to government-negotiated interest rate reductions with local banks.

“Our aim is not just about allocating lots,” Croal said. “It’s about holding your hand and helping you quickly acquire your own home.”

Residents also received steel and cement vouchers to assist in starting their foundations.

In her remarks, Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Vanessa Benn noted that the administration is increasing its physical presence across all regions to ensure ministers and staff are directly addressing the specific needs and worries of citizens.

She emphasised that the government is seeking to move beyond manifesto promises and surpass delivery targets.