The City of Johannesburg has officially launched the Orlando eKhaya and Power Park Housing Projects in Soweto, marking a major milestone in its commitment to inclusive urban development and spatial transformation. The announcement was made on 23 May 2025 by the City’s Member of the Mayoral Committee for Economic Development, Nomoya Mnisi, who unveiled the revitalised initiatives, first introduced in 2001 under then-Mayor Amos Masondo.
Spanning approximately 24 hectares, the combined precincts will deliver an estimated 5 964 residential units to increase access to affordable housing in a centrally located urban corridor. Situated near major transport routes such as Chris Hani Road and public institutions like Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, the University of Johannesburg Soweto Campus and various commercial hubs, the projects are well-positioned to support integrated community living.
Mnisi said the developments go beyond infrastructure. “This unveiling is not just about buildings but it’s about restoring dignity, promoting social inclusion and creating real opportunities. We are reaffirming our collective resolve to confront and reverse the spatial injustices of our painful past. We are saying to the people of Soweto: you matter, your future matters and your place in this city is central to its growth and progress,” said Mnisi.
To date, more than R439 million in private sector investment has been committed to the projects, which are being developed through public-private partnerships led by the Joburg Property Company (JPC). Several components are already complete or underway, including 850 operational student housing beds with another 1 450 under construction. The developments also include 648 Financed Linked Subsidy Programme (FLISP) housing units, of which 136 are already occupied. Additionally, 1 740 social housing units are planned across Erfs 47 and 48, both of which are already zoned, proclaimed and connected to bulk services.
Over 2 000 RDP housing units are in the pipeline, set to be developed across multiple residences in Power Park Ext 2 and Orlando eKhaya Erfs 22, 23 and 24. Raubex Building Executive Director Norman Ntabane praised the project’s progress, calling it “a major milestone in the ongoing efforts to transform historically neglected areas of Soweto. Through a successful public-private partnership, the Joburg Property Company has secured significant private-sector investment in a location that was once overlooked. This unlocks opportunities for economic development, community upliftment and sustainable urban growth in Soweto.
JPC Acting Chief Executive Officer Musah Makhunga noted the importance of student-focused infrastructure in the city’s broader strategy. “Phase 1 focuses on purpose-built student accommodation, with around 2 300 beds already completed. Importantly, 848 of these beds will be made available at no cost to students, ensuring access to education and safe accommodation for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds,” said Makhunga.
The Orlando eKhaya and Power Park projects are key components of Johannesburg’s integrated spatial and socioeconomic development agenda, aimed at tackling housing shortages, improving urban equity and driving inclusive growth.