Twelve Lethem families receive new homes

Twelve families in Lethem, Region Nine are now officially homeowners through the Government’s Lethem Housing Support Programme, executed by the Ministry of Housing–Central Housing and Planning Authority.

The initiative, conceptualized by His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, supports low-income families who face difficulties in building on their allocated lands, by providing access to affordable homes.

Each unit measures 550 square feet and includes two bedrooms and a living and kitchen area, along with a bathroom facility. Valued at approximately $3 million, the homes are supported by a $1 million building-materials subsidy provided by the Ministry, while beneficiaries finance the remaining cost through mortgages. The houses were constructed with the incorporation of locally sourced materials, providing economic support to several communities in the region.

The keys were handed over to the new homeowners on Saturday by the Minister of Housing, Hon. Collin D Croal, and Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Hon. Vanessa Benn

Sharon Malcolm, a single mother of two, was visibly emotional as she received her keys. She described the moment as one of the happiest of her life and highlighted how transformative it will be for her children.

“My two kids, they can call this their home. So, no more renting… we have our own home.”

She noted that the programme has empowered many single parents like herself to achieve what once felt out of reach, while also helping families build generational wealth.

Another beneficiary, Dennevoll Milliano, applauded the government’s continued investment in the region and shared that the home will primarily benefit his children. “We’re just waiting for this time to get the house so that we move inside,” he said, noting that his family has been anticipating this milestone.

For single parent Gianne Augustine, the home brings immediate relief after years of renting a cramped one-bedroom space. She said her children are especially excited about finally having adequate room—her daughter most of all.

“When she comes and she see that we have two [rooms] now, she was like excited … I’m feeling very happy, lucky to have a house of my own now,” she expressed.

The programme targets 600 low-income families in Lethem. Minister Croal noted that construction of the first 100 houses is completed. Of these, 78 have already been handed over, while the remaining 22 are undergoing final paperwork before being presented to beneficiaries.

“We are happy to make people’s lives better,” the Minister said, noting that every home handed over reflects a promise fulfilled to families who need it most.

He emphasized that the homes offer families improved shelter and a stronger foundation for their future. (Ministry of Housing press release)