Investigating policy gaps in the implementation and monitoring of the delivery of low cost housing projects in South Africa the case study of Illovo Township.

Abstract

From its inception in 1994 the South African Low cost housing programme has been characterised by policy implementation gaps, leading to the delivery of poor quality and substandard houses. From 1994 to date there is an alarming decline in the quality of the low cost housing stock that has been rolled out, (Zunguzane et al 2012). The Study Area is located approximately 30kms south west of the eThekwini CBD, and in land of the southern coastal areas of Kingsburgh and Warner Beach, in proximity to the Amanzimtoti central area. The research aims to investigate Policy gaps emanating from the implementation and monitoring of Low Cost housing construction process in South Africa with reference to the Illovo Township, as a case study. The Research uses a qualitative method to examine the implementation challenges. This was achieved by utilising findings from results derived from questionnaire interviews conducted with selected key informants. These were Department of Housing and settlements Project Managers, NHBRC Quality Assessors, and Contractors, the ward councillor and the housing beneficiaries. Project management and Evaluation concept were interrogated to enhance the study. Project management concept highlighted the relationship between world class supply chain management, Total Quality Management (TQM) and the role of norms, standards and specifications is explored. Secondly the Evaluation concept which refers to an on-going process focused on the assessment of projects. To develop arguments the welfare state, developmental state, and Sustainability theories were utilised. The welfare state which is a theory of government in which the state plays a key role in the protection and promotion of the social and economic well-being of its citizens. The Key elements the developmental state theory include state control over finance, direct support for state owned enterprises by the government. Sustainability theory is a key strategy of the Breaking New Ground housing policy (2004) its plan is to “redirect and enhance existing mechanisms to move towards more responsive and effective delivery. The research revealed that managing time, cost and quality was a major challenges in the implementation of the low cost housing project at Illovo Township. Recommendations are budget increase to allow for skills training, the extension of the Contract period Stringent Project management and monitoring must be applied, by all stakeholders involved.