​Lerato Mailoane
Norman Sibaya's dream of owning a home where he will be able to move around independently and freely has finally come true.
Sibaya (52) has been living at a church residence of the 7th Day Adventist in Florida where he was a caretaker.
"The situation was very hard because your stay is not secure. I was constantly worried that if I were to pass away where would my family go?
"I am grateful that I will now enjoy the peace of having shelter and a place where my children can call home," said Sibiya who lost his mobility in 2009.
On Wednesday, Sibaya was one of the physically challenged and elderly beneficiaries of the 1000 new RDP houses in Fleurhof.
The mixed-income housing development is nestled along Main Reef Road, 13km west of the Johannesburg Central Business District.
The project is government's efforts to address the housing backlog.
Thus far, a total of 7600 RDP units have been completed with 6600 people already being allocated.
Upon completion, the development project will yield just over 11 400 RDP housing units.
Gauteng Premier, David_Makhura together with the MEC for Cooperative Governance, Traditional Affairs and Human Settlements, Lebogang Maile and Johannesburg Mayor, Mpho Moerane handed over the new units.  
Recently the area saw a spike in the illegal occupation and vandalising which the City of Johannesburg had to renovate.
Another beneficiary, Gogo Sara Maamogwa, expressed her excitement and gratitude as she was handed over her new home. 
The 106-year – old Maamogwa first applied for an RDP house in 1996. 
"I feel like a child. I am so happy now that I have a place, I can call home. I have been waiting for this house for so many years. Finally, I have my home," Maamogwa said.
Speaking at the handover, Premier Makhura said the Gauteng Provincial Government will continue to prioritise vulnerable members of the community when allocating houses.
He urged beneficiaries to protect their homes and not be misled by people who would request money from them after obtaining the houses.
"We don't want you to live in shacks please don't put up shacks here. We want you all to live peacefully even if you are from different backgrounds. 
"These are your homes given to you by the government. You are not supposed to pay anyone money for these houses. Fully subsidised government or RDP houses are for free to all qualifying beneficiaries," said Makhura.