Nissan, Tshwane mark first year of housing project success

Nissan South Africa's manufacturing MD, Joan Busquets, and City of Tshwane member of mayoral committee (MMC) for housing, Councillor Joshua Ngonyama, celebrated with the planting of the community's first tree, a navel orange.

"Today's event during Arbour Week is a milestone in the project's history," said Busquet. "We will watch these trees grow and flourish just like this community."

Community of Nissanda

50 trees - one for each house - were planted in "Nissanda" (short form for Nissan Development Area), the name given to the new housing area by its residents. "The community is excited and appreciative," said Nissanda Community Forum Chairman, John Baloyi. "The trees, which will shortly bear fruit, will provide both shade and nutrition."

Added Baloyi: "Navel oranges are a healthy fruit choice as they are low in calories and high in fibre, potassium and vitamin C."

"This is the first step in the greening of Nissanda," said Councillor Ngonyama. "It is also a part of the City of Tshwane's Arbour Week activities aimed at promoting sustainable environmental management."

Construction will now start on phase two to build a further 150 houses for needy people on the City of Tshwane's register. These homes should be ready for people to move in by the end of 2017.