Madam Speaker, the ANC believes that housing is a right. We, therefore, endorse the principle that all South Africans have the right to a secure place in which to live in peace and dignity.
Housing is a human right. The ANC congratulates the SA Women in Construction for the successful launch of the Silindiwe Consortium. This is a consortium of unemployed women who volunteered their services during the month of August by building houses in New Rest. These courageous women continue to work hand-in-hand with Thubelisha. As we speak, they are part of the Women's Build in New Rest, aimed at marking the 16 Days of Activism of No Violence Against Women and Children.
The ANC welcomes this bold initiative, and thanks them for their participation in this joint venture, along with the Department of Housing and the private sector. We thank the Minister, in particular, for the support given to these 300 unemployed women, who from today will be active participants in the housing industry. We call upon all women from all walks of life to emulate this example. Forward to the caring ANC government! Thank you. [Applause.]