Traditional governance structures and uptake of housing allocation policy in eThekwini Municipality.
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Date
2023
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Abstract
This research study examines traditional governance structures in the eThekwini Municipality
and its uptake on their housing allocation policy and policy feedback. It further explores how
the dual governance system impacts on state subsidised housing allocation within the
eThekwini Municipality particularly in traditional authority areas. The delivery of houses has
become a highly politicised mandate with some beneficiaries sidelined due to their political
affiliations. Policies are developed to guide service delivery initiatives however the question
of proper consultation with the relevant stakeholders has been raised extensively in recent times
with some key stakeholders lamenting that they have been left out of service delivery initiatives
that are affecting their constituencies. Document analysis on the existing traditional governance
literature, municipal administration and policy feedback was necessary to draw views on how
traditional structures of government implement a policy that they did not formulate, a principle
that they feel is contrary to the democratic values of South Africa and an infringement of their
rights as enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. This study utilized
primary and secondary data collection methods targeting traditional leaders, municipal
officials, Ward Councillors, and residents to draw conclusive analysis. Primary data was
collected using semi-structured interviews from 20 participants.
Findings from the study show that while traditional leaders and Ward Councilors sounded
reconciliatory about working with each other for the benefit of service delivery, however city
officials made it clear that the housing allocation process has become a political havoc.
Research findings also highlighted that service delivery beneficiaries are caught up in this
policy conflict and there is not much that they can do. Traditional Leaders emphasised that they
are not willing to give up their roles as indigenous leaders further stating that unlike
Councillors, they are not appointed or voted on five-year terms. As a result of, balance of
power sharing equilibrium needs to be struck soon especially in areas under Traditional
Authorities. The effects of this policy conflict between the municipality and traditional
governance structures on low-cost housing provision has exacerbated the already dire housing
allocation process in traditional authority areas located in the outskirts of the eThekwini
Municipality.
Description
Masters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.