Housing

Permanent URI for this communityhttps://hdl.handle.net/10413/6683

Housing is more than mere shelter. It transcends the physical structure and exists within a context defined by services and facilities which link individuals and families to the community, the city and regions. The Housing Programme provides a wide range of modules that aim at equipping students with economical, social, technological and policy issues that impinge on various housing production systems and how they impact on the delivery of housing. It is also supported by extensive independent research into various facets of housing by academic staff.

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The 2010 FIFA World Cup and the use of the housing asset for income generation : ǂb a case study of the eThekwini Municipality.
(2013) Goorbhare, Orisha.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
South Africa was presented with the unique opportunity of hosting the first 2010 FIFA World Cup (FWC) on African soil. This unique opportunity further extended itself to the non-hotel accommodation providers, as it was the first time in history that FIFA agreed to accredit non-hotel accommodation providers for the tournament. The research intended to examine the extent of the use of the housing asset to generate income from the 2010 FWC. The study was conducted in the municipal area of eThekwini Municipality (Durban), South Africa. The case study areas consisted of the lower-middle income, upper-middle income and high-income areas of Umbilo, Manor Gardens and Durban North respectively. The data collection method used in the study areas was a household survey with 30 respondents. The respondents were from the high-income area of Durban North, upper middle-income area of Manor Gardens and lower-middle income area of Umbilo. Interviews were conducted to collect data from financial institutions. Data was collected from conventional and non-conventional financial institutions. The findings of the study revealed that the extent to which the housing asset was used to generate income from the 2010 FWC was not high or considerable. This was due to many home-based enterprise (HBE) owners stating that FIFA would stand to benefit largely from the 2010 FWC, with no institutional support for HBE owners to benefit from government. It was also found that conventional and non-conventional financial institutions were not willing to provide financial assistance to HBE owners specifically for generating income from the 2010 FIFA World Cup, due to the short duration of the event. In conclusion, it was recommended that instruments to drive the implementation of the policies be deployed, to create an enabling environment for the small business sector to grow at a household level. A policy should be developed in eThekwini Municipality that standardises the land use management applications and zoning for accommodation providers and HBEs in line with the eThekwini Municipality’s drive to be the ‘Events Capital of Africa’. Intervention from government at all levels is required to ensure that the HBEs in the small business sector benefit from mega-events such as the 2010 FWC.
An analysis of housing provision among refugees in Edmonton city - Canada.
(2023) Alalade, Oluwagbemi Adejare.; Chipungu, Lovemore.
The global influx of refugees and asylum seekers has significantly impacted cities and towns, leading to increased pressure on housing resources, host communities, and governments. This study addresses the complex issue of housing provision among refugees, focusing on Edmonton City, Canada. Recognizing the critical role of housing in successful refugee integration, this research investigates the challenges faced by refugees in securing adequate and affordable housing and explores potential solutions. Using the spatial assimilation theory with a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, this study delves into the multifaceted dimensions of housing provision. The quantitative analysis, based on surveys conducted with refugees in Edmonton City, highlights the pressing concerns of affordability, accessibility, and adequacy. Qualitative insights from interviews with key stakeholders, including government officials and housing service providers, shed light on existing policies and initiatives aimed at addressing refugees' housing needs. The findings reveal significant challenges faced by refugees, including financial constraints, language barriers, discrimination, and inadequate living conditions, all of which hinder their successful integration into Canadian society. In response, this study advocates for a comprehensive strategy that includes increasing the availability of affordable housing designated for refugees. It emphasizes the necessity of enhanced support services to aid refugees in their housing search and settlement processes. Moreover, fostering collaboration between government agencies, housing providers, and community organizations is essential for effective coordination and resource allocation. Furthermore, this research underscores the importance of awareness campaigns and antidiscrimination measures within the housing market. By creating an inclusive environment, refugees can find suitable housing, promoting their overall well-being and integration. The study's recommendations provide actionable insights for policymakers, housing providers, and community organizations, offering tailored solutions that consider refugees' unique cultural, linguistic, and socio-economic backgrounds. In conclusion, this research contributes valuable insights to the academic discourse on refugee integration, emphasizing the pivotal role of housing in facilitating successful resettlement and community integration, using the Spatial Assimilation theory. The insights provided serve as a foundation for stakeholders, guiding their efforts toward creating inclusive, affordable, and sustainable housing solutions for refugees, not only in Edmonton City but also in other communities across Canada.
Analysing the effects of informal land markets on self-help housing in eThekwini Municipality: a case study of uMzinyathi.
(2021) Mhlongo, Nandi Kelly.; Myeni, Sithembiso Lindelihle.
The main aim of the study is to analyse the influence of vernacular land markets on self-help housing and its implications on dweller control using uMzinyathi in eThekwini Municipality as a case study. This study assesses the traditional institutions and practices of the impacts of the customary land tenure on self-help housing in eThekwini Municipality. The study analyses the factors that drive the development of vernacular land markets at uMzinyathi. More specifically, the study examines the process and procedures for local recognition of the transaction of land for housing in uMzinyathi; and identify actors and policies that shape the vernacular land markets in eThekwini Municipality. Overall, the study was to dissect the impact of vernacular land markets on self-build housing in uMzinyathi and its suggestions on dweller control. The study has used the theory of neo-institutionalism where views from historical institutionalism and rational choice institutionalism helped to gain insights into the influence of vernacular land markets on self-help housing in South Africa and its implications on dweller control. The study adopts a qualitative research approach which helps with instruments suited to assess practices and impacts of the customary land tenure on self-help housing in eThekwini Municipality. Semi-structured interviews conducted with stakeholder directly involved in vernacular land markets and self-build housing. Moreover, secondary data from government sources and municipal policies were used in order to triangulate both secondary and primary sources of data. The study findings reveal that admission to land in most sub-Saharan Africa nations is proceeding to be dictated by indigenous frameworks of land residency that developed after some time under both provincial and nearby impacts. This study found that the nature of people experiencing the freedom to build is found within communal areas. Overall, the study recommends that bottlenecks affecting “freedom to build” and “dweller control” should be removed considering that there are patterns of good quality of self-help housing development taking place in peri-urban spaces.
An analysis of backyard structures as a livelihood strategy for low-income households: the case of Ikwezi Township in Mthatha.
(2018) Dilika, Lwazi Lindisipho Phumzile.; Chipungu, Lovemore.
The lack of low income housing especially rental housing in urban areas of South Africa has forced many low-income households to find accommodation in the backyard housing sector, which is mainly provided by the household sector. Despite the growth of the backyard rental housing sector in the post-apartheid era, housing policies have discounted the sector. Focusing more on eradicating informal settlements, and homelessness by delivering subsidised starter houses. The overlooking of the backyard rental sector by the state neglects prospects for more sustainable human settlements. This study thus reflects on the use of backyard structures as a livelihood strategy by low-income households. Addressing the research question of: whether backyard structures can enhance economic opportunities in townships, and what role has it played in elevating the housing backlog problem South African in cities? The study employs a literature review informed by electronic data bases, and implements mixed method research relying on quantitative data gathered via questionnaires, and qualitative data from semi-structured interviews and anecdotal observation in the nonmetropolitan case study of Ikwezi Township, in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. This thesis focuses on housing policy and legislation, spatial, economic, social, and environmental considerations in relation to the backyard rental sector. By discussing the backyard rental sector within housing, the liberal and neoliberal theories and the sustainable livelihood approach are used. In order to relate the sector to planning practises and bylaws at municipal level. The study strengthens the argument that the perception that the backyard rental sector is informal and therefore undesirable is not necessarily true. This study proposes that this position should be reconsidered. In investigating the economic, and environmental impacts of the backyard rental sector in Ikwezi Township in Mthatha. The study affirms that the backyard sector plays a vital role is sustaining livelihood strategies of the poor, and it also increases dwelling unit and population density substantially and it also promotes urban compaction. Furthermore, the study proves that landlord can make considerable amounts of money from their backyard structures. Depending on what they use their backyard structures for, the quality of their neighbourhood, and their backyard structures. The study has also found that the amounts they charge their tenants per backyard structure, and how many backyard structures they have in their homes also play a significant role on the income they can generate from their backyard structures. iv | P a g e All these factors have been proven to differ from case study to case study, and have been proven to have an influence on how much landlords can generate from their backyard structures. The case study of Ikwezi Township has also refuted the notion that economic sustainability wise, low-income dwellings rarely realise financial asset value, trapping homeowners on the low levels of the property ladder in unaffordable housing. Instead the backyard rentals sector provides rental income or other remittances, realising economic asset value, whilst providing tenants with affordable rental accommodation. The backyard rentals sector further promotes the social asset value of housing, and support social sustainability. Evidenced can be seen in co-dependence, and low-conflict in landlordtenant relationships sometimes framed by familial connections that provide tenure security. Findings also indicate that backyard rentals challenge sustainability through concerns of the pressure they place on infrastructure. The study concludes that informal backyard rentals contribute towards elevating poverty in low-income neighbourhoods. However, interventions should be considered by authorities and planners to address impediments such as, lack of infrastructural capacity to accommodate backyard tenants, especially in new housing developments targeting the poor.
Assessing mixed-income housing as a mechanism for social integration: a case study of the Durban Point area.
(2019) Msweli, Noluthando Mandisa.; Loggia, Claudia.; Ojo-Aromokudu, Judith Tinuke.
South Africa has a history of socio-spatial segregation which has been a major problem when it comes to addressing urban issues and housing delivery. Twenty years into democracy, it has been evident that there has been a huge backlog in the delivery of housing. Moreover, the rolledout policies have not addressed issues but rather perpetuated the legacy of Apartheid namely social, racial and economic segregation. However, the South African government, throughout the years, has been working tirelessly to rectify these past injustices. For these reasons, the mixed income approach has become popular in urban transformation interventions in South Africa. Such an approach aims to bridge the gap of socio-spatial, and economic integration by bringing people of different races and social classes into one environment whilst also providing affordable housing for citizens. This dissertation sought to formulate an argument that assesses and challenges the notion that social integration can be established and sustained through the mixing of incomes into one environment through the mixed-income approach. The significance of the study is to contribute to the understanding of the policy of mixed-income housing and its correlation to fostering social integration. It seeks to provide an assessment of whether the assumptions, that mixing of incomes into one neighbourhood, results in positive social patterns and integration amongst people in South Africa. This will be evident in the relations created including the level of interactions amongst the residents of Point. The dissertation provides a snapshot of the impact of the mixed-income ideology as well as the state of integration in the Durban Point Area and future prospects. To obtain the findings, the researcher used a mixed-method approach which involved qualitative and quantitative research; however, the bulk of the information was obtained from the qualitative research. The study made use of primary and secondary data collection methods. The secondary data includes statistics, online publications, books, and newspaper articles whilst the primary data includes interviews, focus groups and observations. After engaging the mentioned methodological approaches, the findings have shown that there is little to no integration fostered in the Durban Point as it is evident that little to no interactions occur in the area. The approach of mixed-income housing in the Durban Point area is further perpetuating social isolation which is the opposite of the envisioned outcome of this approach. According to the eThekwini Municipality, once the area is fully developed, then interactions will naturally occur. With the adoption of this neo-liberal approach, the municipality, unfortunately, has failed to take into consideration various factors that will continue hindering the establishment of integration in such areas such as inequality, race, social backgrounds, unemployment as well as historical aspects. Therefore, the researcher concludes it is important that the South African government needs to focus on making these adopted Western approaches more tailor-made to fit the South African context, for them to achieve the intended outcomes.
Assessing public participation during the compilation of the housing sector plan of the IDP of eThekwini Municipality. a case study of KwaDabeka.
(2019) Xhakaza, Makhosazane.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
This study aims to assess public’s participation during the compilation of the Housing Sector Plan (HSP) of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) of the eThekwini Municipality. The study further aims at assessing the role of the municipality in ensuring that public participation in the HSP does take place. The study focuses on assessing if public participating does take place during the compilation of the HSP, by exploring the level of understanding of public participation through the lens of the community. The KwaDabeka A Infill Housing Project was used as the case study. The problem statement emanated from questioning the housing delivery process. One of the major problems which the study addressed was that beneficiaries were not part of the participatory process. However, the study will look at the public’s participation in the policy making process for housing delivery, namely their input into the HSP of the IDP. The study utilised qualitative and quantitative research techniques to collect primary data. The theories used to inform this included Participatory Democracy, Constitutionalism as well as the Theory of Public Participation by Pretty Arnstein (1969). The Theory of Public Participation by Arnstein (1969) informed this study, as a tool to evaluated if the public of KwaDabeka did participate in the compilation of the HSP for the IDP of the eThekwini Municipality. It further evaluated if the public of KwaDabeka was aware of the process of public participation that was needed for the compilation of the HSP. The findings of the study indicated that a lack of knowledge about the processes during compilation of the HSP led to minimal public participation because of uncertainty from the public. The study made a number of recommendations which highlighted the importance of public participation in the compilation of the HSP. One of the recommendations stated that municipal officials should perform good public governance by explaining the processes of participation for the compilation of the HSP, and by using the bottom-up approach during public engagements to understand the point of view of the public. The study concluded that there was a need to create awareness about public participation in the creation of public policies, especially the HSP. This required the public to be well informed about the processes regarding the compilation of the HSP.
Assessing the benefits and challenges of informal backyard rental housing: a case study of Murchison, Port Shepstone.
(2019) Khumalo, Zinhle.; Loggia, Claudia.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
Established in the 1980s, the informal backyard rental sector has grown at a rapid rate, providing shelter for households wanting to access economic opportunities in the cities. The housing backlog increases every year and issues such as migration to urban areas as well as affordability issues for the low and middle-income households has them resorting to informal settlements and informal backyard rental sector to access housing. The local municipalities then face the dilemma of a high backlog with the challenge of a shortage of resources, expensive land and basic services to deliver the housing to households. The aim of the study was to assess the benefits and challenges that are experienced by the tenants and landlords within the informal backyard rental housing sector, it was conducted in the Murchison community under the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality within KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The objectives include examining the benefits and challenges experienced by the landlords and tenants, to understand the reason behind the proliferation of the informal backyard rental housing sector and to understand the rules and agreements between the landlord and tenant within the sector. A qualitative research methodology was utilized to understand both parties’ experiences within the sector, neoliberalism and the sustainable livelihood approach theories were utilized to analyze the study. The study assesses the policy framework and provides some recommendations that may help the informal backyard rental sector which include having pro-active settlement layouts as well as the support of the microfinance sector so that landlords can be able to access finances to build more informal backyard rental housing. Suggestions of how to help alleviate the challenges experienced and increase the benefits of both the tenant and landlord within the study are proposed. The main findings indicate that the tenant and landlord benefit from the relationship through monetary exchange in the form of rentals for shelter. The tenants experience the most benefits including, access to services, proximity to transport, access to job opportunities and safety. The challenges experienced within the study show that some tenants do not pay rentals on time and do not follow the rules that are set by the landlord which creates a strained relationship between the tenant and landlord.
Assessing the impact of basic service provision on the use of informal dwellings for income generation, a case study of Cato Crest informal settlement, Durban.
(2020) Mabaso, Lulama Noluthando.; Loggia, Claudia.
The existing South African housing backlog confronting the residents is daunting. With the current investigations displaying that the backlog is not depleting or not reaching levels anticipated by the democratic government, the stakeholders of the low-income housing sector are facing an immense challenge. Wilkinson (2014) states that the housing backlog is currently estimated at 2.1 million and is increasing at a rate of 178.000 units per year”. Informal settlements are a major challenge for housing practitioners and planners in developing countries. Failure to address residents’ needs may result in political and social unrest (Barry and Ruther, 2005:1). According to Misselhorn (2008), informal settlement dwellers in South Africa confront challenges such as poor infrastructure, limited access to basic services and insecure tenure. According to Mashabela (1990:23), informal settlements in South Africa date back to the early 1980s.One of the reasons for the mushrooming of informal settlements was the establishment of Black municipalities that took control of townships from the previous administration Boards. These municipalities did not have the financial capacity to provide housing. This study used qualitative research method to collect data. The theoretical framework for this study was based on the modernization theory, the basic needs approach, and the housing asset triangle. Interviews were conducted with an eThekwini municipal project manager and questionnaires were conducted from the case study. This study involved the use of both primary and secondary data to obtain a thorough assessment of basic services provision and income generating activities in the Cato Crest area. This research highlights that access to the provision of basic services in the community of Cato Crest is still a challenge, and the community is hoping for solutions that will fasten the delivery of these services. Various recommendations have been made in terms of creating livelihood strategy workshops to help the community by allowing them to start a platform for their income” generating activities and get assistance from the other community members as well as the municipality.
Assessing the limitations in the implementation of the enhanced people's housing process (EPHP): the case study of the Vulindlela area in Msunduzi.
(2021) Moseya, Nondumiso Lethukuthula.; Loggia, Claudia.
The apartheid system in South Africa created imbalances and this resulted in Black communities facing significant housing issues. The post-apartheid government in South Africa was then responsible for correcting such imbalances. Thus, the Enhanced People’s Housing Programme (EPHP), which was introduced in 1998, was a product of the post-apartheid government meant to ensure that all South Africans had their own houses, including those groups previously disadvantaged by the apartheid system. This programme involves different stakeholders, including provincial and local authorities, non-governmental organisations, community-based organisations, religious bodies, and others. However, the programme has been marred by challenges thus hindering the timeous delivery of housing to the people. Thus, this research aims at assessing the limitations of the implementation of the EPHP in Vulindlela. The study adopted a purposive sampling strategy to select the participants. The qualitative approach was use to collect data through interviews conducted with a sample of 30 participants (20 beneficiaries and 10 stakeholders selected from the Municipality and Vulindlela Development Association (VDA)). The Greater Vulindlela Township located in Pietermaritzburg, Msunduzi Municipality, was selected as the study site for the present study. The study found that limited financial support was one of the significant factors limiting the successful implementation of EPHP in Vulindlela. Other limitations included political patronage, little communication about the programme, and limited community participation. The findings indicate the need to educate communities on the implementation of EPHP and the roles of relevant stakeholders. Furthermore, incentivising community participation improved community participation in the EPHP project.
Assessing the link between the provision of basic municipal services in informal settlements and the creation of sustainable human settlements : case study of Redcliffe and Magwaveni informal settlements.
(2015) Xulu, Nkululeko.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
The provision of basic municipal services to informal settlements in South Africa has been vital in bringing much need services to poor households and addressing hazardous living conditions prevalent in informal settlements. The research evaluates the provision of municipal services to informal settlements by the eThekwini Municipality. It highlights the challenges which are experienced by informal settlements dwellers, due to the lack of services such as roads, water, sanitation and electricity. The study then looks at the current housing backlog and sets out the approaches applied in South Africa and internationally to address the challenges that are experienced by residents in informal settlements. The broad aim of this dissertation is to evaluate how households in informal settlements attain basic services and whether the provision of interim services has assisted such households in meeting their housing needs incrementally. The qualitative approach method was used to collect data on the provision of basic municipal services to informal settlements and the study involved the use and collection of empirical data, two case studies, personal experiences, direct observation and interviews. Two specific housing policies relevant to this study are the Comprehensive Plan for Human Settlements or commonly referred to as the Breaking New Grounds (2004) and the National Housing Code (2009). The study’s findings showed that residents had high levels of access to housing even though they were still occupying informal houses as many households were generally satisfied with the essential municipal services provided and had embarked on making improvements to their currently occupied informal dwellings. The high levels of dissatisfaction with sanitation provided were recorded as residents found it socially unacceptable to be sharing toilets with other settlement dwellers and the study revealed that in both the case study areas there were high levels of access to electricity provided and this was due to the provision of prepaid electricity by the municipality. The study also found high levels of satisfaction with the power supply provided as residents were able use the electricity for household activities and more importantly they no longer had to worry about disconnections as the electricity was supplied by the municipality. The study found that there were high levels of satisfaction with access roads and footpaths provided as the infrastructure provided vehicular access to those residents who owned vehicles and as well as for mini bus taxis transporting residents. The provision of basic services to the study areas was a clear indication by the municipality of laying the building blocks for future houses to be constructed by the municipality and this was in line with the Housing Policy.
Assessing the participation of youth in the delivery of low cost housing: a case study of uMlazi sections B and G.
(2016) Phohlo, Xolani Emmanuel.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
South Africa is experiencing a high rate of youth unemployment (24%) compared to its counter parts. This is due to a variety of reasons like the legacy of the apartheid inequality, poor education, poverty and slow economic growth. The majority of the unemployed are mainly young people between the ages of 18 to 35. Worse, some of the unemployed youth are graduates who find it difficult to secure employment opportunities with the qualifications that they have obtained. One of the objectives of the housing policy is to use the delivery of low cost housing as one of mechanisms to create job opportunities more especially for the youth. The key question of the study looked at the impact of the participation of youth in the delivery of low cost housing at uMlazi sections B and G. The study used qualitative method of data collection. The study found that young people of uMlazi sections B and G did participate in the delivery of low cost housing. The study recommends that the South African government should review the current preferential policies to include youth as a specific target for employment and encourage employment agencies in other sectors outside built environment to implement this provision. The study concluded that the government has played a significant role in ensuring the involvement of youth in service delivery; but the study also calls for more commitment from the side of local government and political will especially on eThekwini municipality to continue ensuring the increase on the number of young people that take part in the delivery of housing.
Assessing the provision of interim services role in prom oting livelihood strategies in informal settlements: case of aMaoti-Mozambique in iNanda.
(2018) Tenza, Owen Thabiso.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
Rapid urbanisation, especially in developing countries, has led to the mushrooming of informal settlements that lack basic services such as water, sanitation and electricity. This study assesses the extent to which the provision of interim basic services to informal settlements that are due for incremental upgrading or relocation promotes livelihood strategies, using aMaoti-Mozambique in iNanda, eThekwini Municipality, as a case study. The study’s objectives included exploring the nature of the livelihood strategies that could be adopted given the provision of interim services; the challenges associated with providing such services; the role players in the provision of interim services; and lessons for policy and practice. A qualitative research approach was adopted and a questionnaire, in-depth interviews and observation were used to gather data. The study revealed that aMaoti-Mozambique was provided with electricity, water, sanitation, waste management, and roads. Community members expressed satisfaction with these services. In terms of livelihood strategies, it was found that some residents opted not to receive government-funded housing as they have already developed their homes. The freedom to self-build with the provision of interim services has created sustainable livelihoods for future generations. Furthermore, residents have utilised the interim services provided to start numerous small businesses that serve the local community. In order to build on this success, the study recommends that a bottom-up approach be adopted and that community participation be strengthened. This would ensure that such projects meet residents’ needs and promote local custodianship of the infrastructure and services provided. It is also recommended that basic services such as water and sanitation should be provided inside households. Finally, innovative, cost-effective new technologies should be harnessed to improve living conditions in informal settlements.
Assessing the provision of interim services role in promoting livelihood strategies in informal settlements : case of Amaoti-Mozambique in Inanda.
(2018) Tenza, Owen Thabiso.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
Rapid urbanisation, especially in developing countries, has led to the mushrooming of informal settlements that lack basic services such as water, sanitation and electricity. This study assesses the extent to which the provision of interim basic services to informal settlements that are due for incremental upgrading or relocation promotes livelihood strategies, using aMaoti-Mozambique in iNanda, eThekwini Municipality, as a case study. The study’s objectives included exploring the nature of the livelihood strategies that could be adopted given the provision of interim services; the challenges associated with providing such services; the role players in the provision of interim services; and lessons for policy and practice. A qualitative research approach was adopted and a questionnaire, in-depth interviews and observation were used to gather data. The study revealed that aMaoti-Mozambique was provided with electricity, water, sanitation, waste management, and roads. Community members expressed satisfaction with these services. In terms of livelihood strategies, it was found that some residents opted not to receive government-funded housing as they have already developed their homes. The freedom to self-build with the provision of interim services has created sustainable livelihoods for future generations. Furthermore, residents have utilised the interim services provided to start numerous small businesses that serve the local community. In order to build on this success, the study recommends that a bottom-up approach be adopted and that community participation be strengthened. This would ensure that such projects meet residents’ needs and promote local custodianship of the infrastructure and services provided. It is also recommended that basic services such as water and sanitation should be provided inside households. Finally, innovative, cost-effective new technologies should be harnessed to improve living conditions in informal settlements.
Assessing the rationale of linking housing delivery with the provision of clean water and proper sanitation in low-income settlements. Case study : Kennedy Road in Durban.
(2016) Mpofu, Abongile.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
This research study assesses the rationale of linking housing delivery with the provision of clean water and proper sanitation. This is achieved through assessing issues such as lack of access to adequate housing, clean water and proper sanitation using Kennedy Road informal Settlement as a case study. Chapter one of this research paper introduces the topic based on delivery of housing and the provision of water and sanitation for a low income group in an urban setting. It further provides an overview of the research problem, research aims and objective. The chapter also defines fundamental concepts such as quality of Life in low income settlements, informal settlements, sustainable human settlements, and water-related diseases which are essential in the understanding the study. It also presents the methodology, which the research study adopted to collect data. This section looks at the research design, methods applied, sampling of the population, data collection as well as analysis methods. This study adopted a qualitative research method to collect data. Data was collected using household surveys, which were conducted in the selected case study area and interviews were conducted with the officials from the housing, water and sanitation units. Chapter two looks at key elements of the research study namely theoretical framework. This chapter provides the theories on which the study is based. These theories or approaches are Basic Human Needs Approach, Human Rights Based Approach, Threshold Saturation Theory and Integration and Coordination Approach. Chapter three provides a literature review on the delivery of housing with the provision of clean water and proper sanitation to the urban poor. Furthermore the literature helps to create a framework for understanding global trends on housing delivery together with the provision of clean water and proper sanitation for the urban poor. This chapter also looks at how these trends influence South African housing delivery and the provision of water and sanitation. International and local case studies are provided to support the argument. This section analytically engages with the existing literature, it also analyses the work of researchers, scholars and the international and local legislative framework on housing, water and sanitation. Chapter four presents an overview of the historical background of the case study, which is Kennedy Road. It also unpacks the characteristics of the area, by considering the geographical location, the historical background of the study area, plus the socio-economic status including valuable resources, employment level and the well-being of the occupants. Chapter five presents the analysis of data followed by a discussion of the research findings and an explanation of how the research findings relate to the research questions that guided the study. Chapter six deals with the findings and outlines the conclusion for the research paper. It concludes the research paper by providing a review of the entire research and further gives recommendations based on the findings of the research. Research findings reveal that lack of access to adequate housing, clean water and proper sanitation has a negative effect on the health and the well-being of the urban poor; the further show that lack of access to water contributes to ill health, environmental and socio-economic problems. The summary of the results and analysis were gathered from the interviews and questionnaires in the study area, during the site visits that were conducted. The summary of findings determines the degree to which the research paper has successfully answered the research question, sub-questions and objectives.
Assessing the support given by the SEDA Construction Incubator programme to emerging contractors involved in housing within the eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.
(2018) Noor, Mohamed Saidi.; Adebayo, Pauline Wambui.
This study assessed the support offered by the SEDA Construction Incubator (SCI) programme to emerging contractors involved in housing construction. Emerging contractors are black-owned small and medium construction enterprises. The housing process excluded such contractors during the apartheid era. This exclusion created a pool of underdeveloped black-owned companies. It is for this reason that the promotion of emerging contractors is a central theme of the current government’s housing policy. The South African government appoints these contractors, through a tender system, for the construction and maintenance of state-subsidised housing. However, these emerging contractors often fail to grow beyond basic levels of business operations. The SCI programme has been developed as a response to the challenges emerging contractors face. This study analysed the way support has been given to emerging contractors. The study analysed the discourse around the challenges hindering small and medium contractors in South African and internationally. It also looked at mentorship and training support programmes implemented locally. The study thereafter used qualitative research instruments to examine and analyse the challenges that contractors in SCI programme encounter and the extent to which the SCI programme’s support assisted contractors to mitigate their challenges. The study’s findings revealed that contractors’ main challenges were in respect of obtaining new construction projects and accessing finance. The challenge of winning projects compounded the challenge of accessing finance. Also, contractors did not maximise the benefits of the theoretical or mentorship support by the SCI programme because these forms of support were structured to assist contractors after they had won projects and begun the physical construction of the housing project. In addition to this, the findings revealed a difference between the support that the programme provided and the expectations of the emerging contractors, which resulted in contractors expecting project opportunities from the SCI programme. Many of these emerging contractors expected the SCI programme to offer them construction projects that they would implement while they were members of the programme but the programme only went as far as its mandate, which was to support contractors to win projects rather than arrange projects. The researcher recommends that the implementers of the SCI programme consult with potential SCI contractors prior to them entering the programme, to carefully set out the roles of all the stakeholders involved within the duration of the incubation. This would ensure that the expectations of contractors are managed. In addition to this, the researcher recommends that the SCI programme extends its mandate to support contractors to win projects. The researcher suggests that the SCI programme should also provide a platform to emerging contractors that will enable potential clients to interact with, negotiate and do business with these contractors.
Assessing the sustainable provision of water and sanitation services after in-situ upgrading of informal settlements : a case study of Cato Crest.
(2017) Shezi, Malusi Sihle.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
This research study assesses the sustainable provision of water and sanitation in insitu upgrading of informal settlements. This is achieved through assessing issues such as lack of clean water and proper sanitation using Cato Crest in-situ housing project as the case study. The Cato Crest area falls under eThekwini Municipality (Ward 101). Cato Crest is located along edges or crest of Cato Manor, it is roughly seven kilometers toward the west of the Durban CBD. This research introduces the topic based on the provision of clean water and proper sanitation for low income people in an urban settlement. This research further offers an overview of the research problem, research aims and research objectives. The aim objective of this research was to access the sustainable provision of clean water and proper sanitation services in upgraded informal settlements and to access if people continue to use the municipal services even beyond their in-situ upgrading of informal settlements. This study used qualitative research method to collect data. The theoretical framework for this study was based on decentralization theory, the basic needs approach, and human right based approach. Interviews were conducted with eThekwini Water and Sanitation officials and household surveys were conducted from the case study. This study involved the use of both primary and secondary data to obtain a thorough assessment of the problem of water supply and sanitation in the Cato Crest area. Access to water and adequate sanitation has been a challenging issue in Cato Crest area. The study’s findings showed satisfaction with regard to the provision of clean water. The study also found high level of dissatisfaction with regards to the provision of sanitation, some respondents raised concerns that the chemical toilets were not safe especially for women and children at night because some of the doors could not close and there was no light once the sun had set, this raised the important issue of safety. The study concluded that, the pace of municipal services such as water and sanitation is still perceived to be slow compared to the growing needs of the population therefore it is important for the government to continue investing in delivering basic services to all South African citizen.
Assessing the use of housing as a source of income in a rural settlement in KwaZulu-Natal, case of Gingindlovu.
(2020) Gumbi, Bongiwe Felicia.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
Poverty and unemployment, particularly in developing countries, has led to low-income households resorting to different alternatives to make a living. This study assessed the use of housing as a source of income in a rural settlement, namely, Gingindlovu in the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Province, South Africa. The aim of the study was to assess whether residents of Gingindlovu extensions 5 and 6 use their state-subsidised houses as a source for income generation. The study’s objectives included understanding the use of Breaking New Ground (BNG) houses as an income source in a rural low-income settlement and the challenges experienced by residents in using their BNG houses to generate income. The Sustainable Livelihoods Approach and the Basic Human Needs Approach provided the theoretical framework. In terms of methodology, the study adopted qualitative and quantitative research approach which included an interview, observation and questionnaires as tools for data collection. Findings revealed the women comprised the majority of the housing beneficiaries who participated in the study. Beneficiaries who used their houses to generate income did so in a number of ways including running spaza/tuck-shops, a hair salon and doing mechanical repairs. Income generated assisted in meeting basic needs. Challenges faced included strong competition among the businesses and a limited market. Beneficiaries who had not established income-generating activities were keen to do so but lacked start-up capital and were hesitant to make use of loans. Recommendations included the need for government to establish financing mechanisms to enable housing beneficiaries to start income-generating activities from their homes and incorporate these mechanisms into new housing projects. Consideration should also be given to providing space in the houses for such activities and incorporating this into the design of the houses. In conclusion, the study emphasises that while the provision of BNG houses has not taken low-income households out of poverty it has, however, contributed to poverty alleviation in those households.
An assessment of environmental sustainability in low-income settlements : the case study of Qadi Towhship in KwaNyuswa.
(2016) Mnyandu, Sithabile Sinethemba.; Ojo-Aromokudu, Judith Tinuke.
Environmental sustainability has a significant contribution to the conservation of natural capital. In low-income settlements it improves the quality of place by providing a clean environment and minimising environmental threats. During the life-cycle of low-income settlement where housing is used as a product, natural resources such as water and energy are consumed as inputs while waste is generated as an output. Environmentally sustainable low-income settlements are therefore necessary for controlling the consumption of resources, manage waste, minimise environmental impacts and provide a clean environment. It is against this background that the study assesses and suggests greening, water efficiency, energy efficiency and waste management as strategies to conserve natural capital, address environmental impacts and ultimately improve quality of place (QoP) in low-income settlements. The study therefore explores the effectiveness of these elements on creating environmentally sustainable low-income settlements based on the interpretive paradigm. It has used both qualitative and quantitative data methodologies relying on interviews, questionnaires and observations and secondary data to evaluate the uncontrolled negative impacts and unintended environmental threats brought about by low-income settlements. It examines the influence of conserving natural capital in improving QoP while assessing the elements that can create environmentally sustainable low-income settlements. Finally it outlines the strategies that can be adopted to strengthen the conservation of natural capital and improve the quality of place within low-income settlements. It was discovered by the study that poor management structures and budget constraints are contributing factors to unpleasant environmental conditions and poor quality of place within low-income settlements.
An assessment of municipal solid waste management (MSWM) in informal settlements in eThekwini Municipality : a case study of Cato Crest Informal Settlement, Durban.
(2016) Zandamela, Tanya Stephania.; Chipungu, Lovemore.
Waste generated by daily human activities and left to accumulate in ubiquitous, illegal, unregulated dumpsites close to dwellings, is a problem in informal settlements. If not collected and appropriately disposed of, it poses risks to public and environmental health. The quality of life and living conditions of those that already suffer deprivation due to living in informal settlements are further compromised. Waste services provided by local government are generally not adequate in informal settlements. Many municipalities struggle to provide even the most basic services to contain solid waste in these areas due to a lack of infrastructure and financial resources. This study sought to determine the efficacy of current solid waste management in enhancing living conditions in informal settlements in eThekwini Municipality. The functionalism theory, neoliberalism theory, and communicative planning theory provided the theoretical background for the study and enabled an understanding of the role of different stakeholders in the management of solid waste in informal settlements. The study employed qualitative research methods, consisting of interviews and participant observation. It established that inhabitants of informal settlements cannot afford to pay for waste management services, nor are they willing to do so. The study found that the main barrier to effective municipal solid waste management and healthy living conditions in informal settlements is a lack of political will and stakeholder accountability in the solid waste management process, as well as the exclusion of these settlements from the provision of formal basic sanitary services. Another key determining factor is prevailing attitudes to solid waste management. To change this mind-set, community members need to be educated on the dangers that inadequate waste management pose to human and environmental well-being. Participation and strong partnerships between different interest groups have been found to be part of the solution to this problem and should be encouraged for effective solid waste management in informal settlements.
An assessment of the RDP settlements vulnerability to impacts of climate change : a case study of Umlazi Y section, south of Durban.
(2016) Hlatshwayo, Wendy Ntombifuthi.; Ojo-Aromokudu, Judith Tinuke.
Prominences of environmental issues such as climate change have increased the need to achieve environmentally sustainable housing developments. Although effects of climate change are experienced at a global scale, vulnerability of a system is determined by scale and context. The objective of this research study is to understand how RDP dwellings are vulnerable to impacts of climate change and identify climate responsive housing consolidation methods which households can apply to improve the adaptability of RDP settlements. A case study was selected purposively. An Interview was conducted with a housing official and household surveys were conducted from the case study. Research findings indicate that RDP dwellings are vulnerable to impacts of climate change. The following factors contributed to the vulnerability of RDP settlements: lack of information on climate change, lack of resources and housing typology. At a policy level, it was discovered that issues of climate change have not yet been mainstreamed into housing policy. The research therefore, recommends that efforts are made to mainstream issues of climate change into housing policy and that measures are undertaken to strengthen the adaptive capacity of households.