A home is one of the most basic human needs. Whoever you are, rich or poor, the need for a roof over your head remains constant throughout the years and across generations.
Around half a century ago, in the 1970s, the government launched an ambitious programme to have the State provide housing for those living in rented, slum-like dwellings. This marked the beginning of a process in which more families were given decent, dignified accommodation, as old rental buildings were demolished and replaced by new social housing blocks. Social housing automatically increases social mobility.
Those were different times, of a distinct society with tastes different from today's. But the need for shelter has always remained and will continue to do so.
Housing remains a pillar of social justice and a foundation for building a fair and inclusive society. The work carried out by the Ministry for Social and Affordable Accommodation and the Housing Authority did not happen by coincidence, nor did they find an easy path ahead - far from it.
In 2013, more than 3,000 families were waiting for social accommodation.
By the end of last year, that number had dropped to just over 1,600. These figures speak for themselves - a result of the efforts made by the Ministry and the Housing Authority.
The work will continue because we recognise that our society will keep evolving and that there will always be a need for a roof over one's head. Therefore, in line with the Malta Vision 2050, the plan is to reduce the waiting list by a further 20% over the next ten years. This will be achieved through a range of initiatives - both existing and new schemes to be launched in the coming years.
Looking Ahead
Throughout 2024, around 550 new social housing allocations were made. This year alone, more than 370 additional allocations have already been granted. That means that in just 22 months, over 900 families have moved into new homes, more than 900 families who no longer live in uncertainty or fear of not having a roof over their children's heads.
Several schemes were also launched through which 12,300 other families have benefited in securing a place to live. These include the Deposit Guarantee Scheme, Equity Sharing, Rent Benefit, Pre-1995 Rent Assistance, First-Time Buyers schemes, and initiatives to help elderly families continue living independently and with dignity in their own homes.
In Ħal Farruġ, the most significant social housing project ever undertaken in Malta is currently being built. The project, funded with €40 million, includes 270 apartments, 300 garages, and parking spaces.
Using funds from the National and Social Development Fund (revenue from the citizenship-by-investment programme), the Housing Authority aims to build around 560 new residential units and 480 parking spaces within the next three years.
One should also not forget the 'Nikru biex Nassistu' (Rent to Assist) scheme, through which around 1,300 private properties were leased for social accommodation.
These measures have increased Malta's total housing stock, both public and private to around 7,400 units.
As a result, Malta can proudly state that 85% of families are homeowners today.
Is it enough? Never. That is why the Ministry for Social and Affordable Accommodation and the Housing Authority continue to develop new and innovative solutions.
This is where the new Affordable Housing model comes in the Government-Church Affordable Housing Project.
Through this initiative, around 260 apartments will be placed on the market for sale at approximately 30% below current market prices. These homes are targeted at individuals who do not qualify for Housing Authority assistance but still need support to become homeowners. The apartments will be spread across Kirkop, Fgura, Ta' Ġiorni, and Marsascala.
This initiative has received strong support from various social partners, all united by one goal: ensuring that more families can access decent, affordable housing.
As part of efforts to explore innovative and sustainable housing solutions, new models are also being evaluated some never before considered in Malta.
Our commitment is clear: we will continue to invest, to innovate, and to collaborate so that tomorrow's home reflects the values we hold dear - inclusion, fairness, and dignity for all. Because when we provide a home, we are not just building housing units, we are building lives, strengthening communities, and shaping the Malta of tomorrow.
Roderick Galdes is Minister for Social Accommodation