On 23 February 2024, the Gauteng Partnership Fund (GPF), an entity of the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements, unveiled its latest innovative funding product, Kasi4Real.

This product aims to revolutionise the landscape of township development by empowering residents to harness the potential of their backyards.

The launch event, held at the iconic Grace Bible Church in Pimville, Soweto, was met with enthusiastic participation from members of the public. Attendees eagerly sought answers regarding eligibility criteria and the intricacies of the programme from the MEC for Human Settlements, Lebogang Maile; CEO of the GPF, Lindiwe Kwele; and the Board Chairperson of the GPF, Craig Cornish. The City of Johannesburg’s Speaker Councillor Margaret Arnolds was also in attendance to lend her support on behalf of the Executive Mayor of Johannesburg.

Kasi4Real offers funding to qualified township-based property owners for the construction of rental units within their yards.

While backrooms have traditionally served as supplementary income streams for many families, Kasi4Real seeks to elevate these endeavours into legitimate businesses. By formalising backyard developments, the programme addresses critical housing shortages while providing residents with a tangible pathway to financial empowerment.

Lindiwe Kwele, the CEO of the GPF, said: “The aim of the programme seeks to address housing shortages and formalise backyard developments in the townships by directly funding potential township developers for residential township developments.” 

Recipients of the funding will undergo a comprehensive training and development programme to ensure they are equipped with the skills necessary to effectively manage their rental businesses.

To qualify for funding, applicants must submit a detailed business plan, along with company registration documents and cost estimates for the project. The developments will utilise conventional building materials or innovative prefabricated units, offering flexibility in construction methods.

Moreover, Kasi4Real presents an opportunity for township-based contractors and suppliers to thrive, as funded individuals are required to source materials locally.

Learn more here: https://gpf.org.za/rental-projects/#kas

• To apply for this innovative funding solution to develop township real estate send an email of interest to kasi4real@gpf.org.za or call 0116856600 for assistance.