Gauteng Human Settlements MEC Tasneem Motara Launches Two New Student Accommodation Projects in Johannesburg

Gauteng Human Settlements MEC Tasneem Motara Launches Two New Student Accommodation Projects in Johannesburg

On 17 October 2024,

Today, the Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements Tasneem Motara officially launched two newly completed student accommodation projects funded by the Gauteng Partnership Fund (GPF), which are expected to deliver much-needed beds ahead of the 2025 academic year.

The two projects – 57 on Bok in Doornfontein and Residence Viera in Brixton – are part of the GPF’s broader efforts to tackle the province’s student housing shortage. Combined, they have delivered beds for 378 students. They lie near the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and Wits University campuses.

These launches mark a major step forward in addressing a long-standing crisis, with demand for student housing exceeding supply by a significant margin. Motara is also set to launch another completed student accommodation project in East Pretoria Gardens called Haborona Student Res, which was co-funded by the GPF and the National Empowerment Fund. Haborona will deliver accommodation for over 300 students.

Nompumelelo Chiliza, a second year LLB student and one of the beneficiaries of Residence Viera, shared the perks of living in this newly built development.

“With 24-hour security, a dedicated student manager, and cleaning services three times a week, we feel safe and supported,” she said.

“The laundry facilities are always available, and there’s student transport for daily commutes, which is a big plus for those of us in Brixton.”

In her keynote addresses this morning, MEC Motara lauded the initiative as a key part of transforming Gauteng’s housing landscape.

“The successful completion of these projects is more than just a win for student accommodation — it represents a critical investment in the future of our province. By providing safe and affordable housing, we are empowering students to thrive both academically and socially. These projects serve as a model of what can be achieved when public-private partnerships are used to address urgent social needs.”

The Chairperson of the GPF Board, Craig Cornish highlighted the significance of the two projects in the broader context of inner-city revitalisation.

“These projects are situated within a key node of Johannesburg’s educational and industrial sectors, making it ideal for student accommodation. They are also close to a host of transportation options, giving students easy access to both academic and recreational facilities,” Cornish said.

Lloyd Feshete, co-owner of Residence Viera, said: Effectively, we did the shell [of the building] in three months and then used the other three months to do the finishes. What made it all possible was the funding [from the GPF] that was available. If it wasn’t for that, we wouldn’t have been able to carry this off. We also had great support from the community—we didn’t have any issues with the ‘construction mafia’ or any interferences.”

Vuyo Myoli, the co-owner of 57 on Bok, expressed deep gratitude to the GPF for believing in their vision, providing financial support, and standing by their dream.

END

Notes to editors:

The Gauteng Partnership Fund is the implementing agency of the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements founded in 2002. Its core mandate is to leverage private-sector funding to support the development of sustainable human settlements in the province. The GPF, through public-private sector partnerships, innovative financing, and operational excellence, is an exceptional government partner.

For further information and images, please contact:

Gift Sebastian Langa 

Spokesperson to MEC Motara

Department of Human Settlements
Tel: 011 355 8000
 Cell: 071 941 2441

E-Mail: Gift.Langa@gauteng.gov.za

Web: www.gauteng.gov.za  

OR

Andile Ndlovu

Stakeholder Relations Officer

Gauteng Partnership Fund

Phone: 063 771 4164

E-Mail: andilen@gpf.org.za

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