Better housing for South Africa?

Abstract

This article outlines the elements of the housing policy ·and programme strategies in South Africa, which has adopted a market-centred housing policy. The successes and failures (as well as the strengths and weaknesses) of the process are highlighted, indicating areas of concern and possible re-alignment and improvement for sustainability. Minimum specifications regarding services and buildings, including sizes (categories), must be provided in order to eliminate counter-productive perspectives from various platforms. One of the foremost socio­economic problems in South Africa is the unemployment crisis. The solution lies in fighting poverty and providing sustainable housing. To subsidise low-income housing without subsidising local authorities for an extended period, will eventually lead to a new round of poverty in South Africa, and the subsequent collapse of local authorities. We cannot afford to solve an existing problem by creating a new one for the next millennium.