Bernard Dumeko will no longer have to endure living in his decrepit mud hut and will soon move into a home built by the Lima and Teba Development construction team for the Elliotdale Housing Project.

This elderly man’s living condition was brought to the attention of the construction team and was immediately approved by the Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements (ECDOHS) and the Development Bank of South Africa to have the team build him a secure home.

Bernard had been living in his mud hut over the last thirty-four years, and even though it provided shelter for him, it has not been a safe home for his children or grandchildren to live in due to the erosion over the years.

“Three years ago, parts of the roof caved in and I have not been able to fix it. I have accepted these conditions but I know that it is not safe for my family to stay in. I am so excited to live in my new home- it is really big and warm,” said a humble Bernard.

Bernard’s grandson has moved in with him, and can now help his grandfather with his daily chores which include gardening; fetching water and getting supplies from the nearest shop.

“I am so happy that I will not be alone. My family and I will enjoy being in a warm home without holes in the roof - it will be nice not to get wet when it rains and not to sleep next to my chickens,” said Bernard. While the housing is underway, the ECDOHS has put in place a temporary structure, so that his grandson can move in with him. Once he moves into his new home, more of his family members will live with him. Mr Dumeko is sharing in the enjoyment with many other vulnerable families and elderly people who have moved into their newly completed homes.