RDP Housing in the Eastern Cape: How to Apply
The Eastern Cape has a large and geographically dispersed housing backlog, with major demand in Buffalo City (East London), Nelson Mandela Bay (Port Elizabeth/Gqeberha), and rural areas. The Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements coordinates housing delivery across the province.
Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements
- Phone: 040 609 3000
- Walk-in: Tyamzashe Building, Independence Avenue, Bisho
- National Helpline (toll-free): 0800 146 873
Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (East London)
- Phone: 043 705 2000
- Walk-in: Housing Department, Oxford Street, East London
- Regional offices: Mdantsane, Potsdam, Bhisho
Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (Gqeberha)
- Phone: 041 506 1111
- Walk-in: Civic Centre, Govan Mbeki Avenue, Gqeberha
- Housing Call Centre: 041 506 2000
Mthatha (O.R. Tambo District Municipality) has one of the highest rural housing waiting lists in the country. Contact O.R. Tambo District Municipality at 047 501 6000.
Rural Eastern Cape
Large rural areas of the Eastern Cape fall under district municipalities such as O.R. Tambo (Mthatha), Alfred Nzo, Amathole, and Chris Hani. Apply at your local municipality housing office.
Rural housing in the former homeland areas often involves both the municipality and the traditional authority (inkosi). Ensure you engage both where applicable.
Walter Sisulu Housing Programme
The Eastern Cape runs the Walter Sisulu Social Housing Programme for qualifying low-income earners who need subsidised rental accommodation in urban areas. This is distinct from the free RDP programme and targets those earning R1,500–R15,000 per month.