The City of Johannesburg, through the Joburg Property Company (JPC), has marked a significant milestone in the development of 135 residential units at Erf 15, Orlando Ekhaya, in Region D, with a sod-turning ceremony held on Wednesday, 28 October 2026.

The development will comprise a mix of bachelor, one-bedroom and two-bedroom walk-up apartments designed to expand access to quality, secure and affordable housing. The project is also expected to create temporary employment opportunities during construction, support local small businesses and contribute to economic development in the surrounding community.

The initiative forms part of the City’s broader efforts to unlock the value of municipal land, expand housing opportunities and stimulate investment while promoting inclusive and sustainable urban development.

Speaking at the ceremony, Patricia Malele, Acting General Manager for Commercial and City Intervention at JPC, said the development represented an investment in people, families and the long-term growth of the community.

“Today marks the beginning of a development that will create homes, generate opportunities, strengthen our local economy and contribute to the future of this community. This project represents much more than bricks and mortar; it is an investment in people, families and long-term growth,” said Malena.

She urged community members to protect the development against vandalism and work with the project team to ensure its successful completion.

“When infrastructure is vandalised, the community ultimately suffers. It is in our collective interest to protect this investment, support the developers and work together to ensure that the project delivers lasting benefits,” Malena said.

Ward 30 Councillor Mohau Molefe welcomed the development, saying it would help address the need for affordable housing while creating economic opportunities for residents.

“This project will bring more affordable housing opportunities to people who need homes. Accessing a home through traditional financing can be challenging for many people, and developments such as this can help expand housing opportunities within our communities,” said Molefe.

He called on stakeholders to ensure that local residents and businesses were considered for opportunities arising from the project.

Simon Motha, JPC Board Chairperson, said the development was an important investment in addressing the growing demand for quality, secure and affordable housing in Johannesburg.

“We appreciate this investment because it means a great deal to the City of Johannesburg. Beyond providing housing, the project has the potential to create jobs, improve access to services and restore dignity to the people of Orlando,” said Motha.

A Ward 30 resident, Kagiso Mararha, welcomed the project, highlighting its potential to create employment for young people and provide more families with access to decent accommodation.

“This project will give our children opportunities for employment and help families who do not have proper homes. We also appeal to the project team to give local businesses and skilled residents an opportunity to participate, including those working in construction, plumbing and electrical services,” she said.

The City, through JPC, remains committed to leveraging municipal property assets to support development, expand access to housing and create opportunities that contribute to Johannesburg’s economic growth and the well-being of its communities.