Ten families registered with the Social Register of Mauritius have been handed the keys to their new homes in a ceremony held in Henrietta. The event was attended by Minister of Social Integration, Social Security, and National Solidarity, Ashok Subron, and Junior Minister Kugan Parapen. This initiative aims to provide affordable housing to disadvantaged families.
The new homes are located in Henrietta, Melrose, and Sébastopol, with four units in Henrietta, four in Melrose, and two in Sébastopol. The National Housing Development Company constructs these homes, with 10% reserved for beneficiaries of the Social Register of Mauritius, managed by the National Empowerment Foundation. This allocation ensures that the most vulnerable families have access to decent housing.
Ashok Subron emphasized that access to decent housing, food, and clothing forms the foundation of a dignified life. He noted that the rising cost of land and construction in Mauritius makes it increasingly difficult for households to afford homes, particularly vulnerable families. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing the needs of the most disadvantaged despite the current economic climate.
The Minister highlighted the Rent-to-Own plan implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Lands as a vital solution for low-income families who face difficulties securing bank loans. Under this scheme, beneficiaries pay a monthly rent of Rs 4,000 over a maximum period of five years. This initiative has been welcomed as a means of facilitating homeownership for those who might otherwise struggle to access it.
Ashok Subron expressed his desire to see the Rent-to-Own system extended specifically to beneficiaries of the Social Register of Mauritius. He announced that from next year, the income eligibility threshold for registration with the Social Register of Mauritius will increase from Rs 16,400 to Rs 17,500. This change is expected to enable more families to benefit from state support and access homeownership.
The government's efforts to address housing needs are focused on supporting the most vulnerable populations. By increasing the eligibility threshold, more families will be able to access assistance and eventually own their homes. This move is part of a broader strategy to ensure that everyone has access to basic necessities, including decent housing.
The distribution of keys to the ten families marks a significant milestone in the government's commitment to providing affordable housing. With the continued implementation of initiatives like the Rent-to-Own plan and adjustments to eligibility thresholds, the government aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of disadvantaged families across Mauritius.
Key points
- The Mauritian government has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing the housing needs of the most vulnerable populations.
- Ten new homes have been allocated to families registered with the Social Register of Mauritius.
- The income eligibility threshold for the Social Register of Mauritius will increase to Rs 17,500 from next year.
