Polokwane - The Limpopo Department of Local Government and Housing has launched a housing database in an attempt to turnaround the backlog of housing delivery in the province.
The housing demand database, which will replace the existing housing waiting list in the province, will help the department to plan efficiently as well as making sure that houses are allocated to rightful beneficiaries.
According to the departmental spokesperson, Clayson Monyela, residents will be expected to bring their Identity Documents (IDs) to register on the new system.
Mr Monyela said the demand database is meant to accelerate the delivery of housing as well as provide the department with the accurate details of all beneficiaries in need of housing in the province.
It is a working tool aimed at improving the information system for people applying for housing assistance in the province. The campaign will help the department to allocate houses according to peoples' needs, choices and affordability.
Unlike the waiting list, all households qualifying for various government subsidies and in need of housing products ranging from free Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) housing, to rental and bonded housing, households earning up to R7 500 will be registered on the demand database.
"The housing waiting list only allowed us to register for the RDP housing demand and this has made it difficult for us to plan appropriately as a substantial number of people in the province are looking for alternative accommodation such as affordable rental and subsidised housing," he said.
With the new system, Limpopo residents who require houses will be properly assisted.
The department has planned to pilot its new housing demand database campaign in ten municipalities across the province.
The municipalities are Makhado, Ba-Phalaborwa, Elias Motsoaledi, Greater Tubatse, Greater Giyani, Greater Tzaneen, Lephalale, Mokgalakwena, Polokwane and Thabazimbi.
