On February 11, 2025, Agrément South Africa (ASA) and the Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements (ECDHS) took a significant step toward improving housing quality in the province by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

The signing ceremony took place at the Blue Lagoon Hotel in East London, solidifying a partnership aimed at promoting innovative and sustainable building solutions.

The MOU was signed by ASA CEO, Mr. Richard Somenje, and ECDHS Acting Head of Department, Mr. Edmond Venn. This agreement marks a collaborative commitment to ensuring that innovative building technologies (IBTs) used in the province meet high safety, durability, and quality standards.

The partnership is set to streamline the certification process for innovative construction materials and systems, ensuring compliance with national standards and regulations. By leveraging ASA’s expertise in certifying innovative building technologies, the agreement aims to enhance the efficiency and quality of human settlement projects across the Eastern Cape.

“We are excited about this collaboration, which will drive the adoption of certified innovative building technologies in the province. This will ensure that communities receive durable, safe, and high-quality housing solutions,” said Mr. Richard Somenje, CEO of ASA.

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Edmond Venn, Acting HOD of ECDHS, highlighted the importance of innovation in addressing housing challenges. “Through this partnership, we will be able to accelerate the implementation of sustainable housing solutions while ensuring compliance with rigorous quality assurance processes,” he stated.

The Eastern Cape has a significant demand for sustainable and cost-effective housing solutions. This MOU will facilitate the integration of IBTs into the province’s human settlements, supporting government efforts to provide housing that is both resilient and environmentally friendly.

This partnership aligns with ASA’s mission to support the use of innovative, tested, and certified construction solutions while ensuring that quality and safety are never compromised.

It also contributes to the broader goal of enhancing the living conditions of Eastern Cape residents by delivering housing solutions that are built to last.

With this agreement in place, stakeholders in the housing and construction sectors can look forward to a future where innovative and high-quality building technologies play a key role in addressing housing needs in the Eastern Cape.