In response to rapid urbanisation, the forum of Minister and MECs of Human Settlements (MINMEC) has taken a decision to redirect over R650 million Urban Settlements Development Grant (USDG) to the country’s five metropolitan municipalities.
The five municipalities – Mangaung, Ekurhuleni, City of Johannesburg, City of Tshwane and City of Cape Town – will use the grant towards infrastructure development which includes social housing, student accommodation, upgrading of informal settlements and acquisition of land for human settlements development.
Human Settlements Minister Lindiwe Sisulu said over the past few years metropolitan areas have experienced an increase in its population size.
She said this is largely informed by perceived better economic opportunities in big cities which ultimately create competition for adequate housing.
“South Africa is facing urbanisation challenges as young people move to cities to seek better economic opportunities. With this financial commitment we are enabling provinces and metros to respond to these challenges, this will include responding to student accommodation and adequate housing for low income earners,” said Minister Sisulu.
She said that provincial MECs of Human Settlements will work closely with the executive mayors in ensuring that the funds are not used for anything else but allocated to human settlements departments within metros.
Warning against land invasion
Meanwhile, Minister Sisulu sent a warning to developers and property owners who allow their land and buildings to be invaded. She said property owners have a responsibility to ensure that their properties are guarded.
“When they see illegal occupations taking place they must act immediately and report it to law enforcement agencies. Municipalities and law enforcement agencies must take action immediately when cases of illegal occupations have been reported,” the Minister said.
South Africa should use urbanisation as a tool to push development and combat poverty by providing adequate housing opportunities and ensuring people have access to basic services, says Human Settlements Minister Lindiwe Sisulu.
