According to Matlhodi Maseko, Western Cape Spokesperson on Human Settlements, Housing Club CEO, Dawn Klatzko, has raised concerns about the fact that millions of families in South Africa are falling through the cracks as they do not qualify for housing subsidies, but can also not afford a bond.
The Western Cape Department of Human Settlements is engaged with the National Department of Human Settlements in a policy process that will address this issue. It is currently deliberating a white paper titled: Towards Policy Foundation for the Human Settlements Legislation.
In the early 2000s, the focus was shifted away from emphasis on ‘housing’ towards that of ‘human settlements’ and the delivery of housing opportunities. Despite the fact that all South Africans have a right to adequate housing, as per the Constitution, it can only be delivered within the means of the state. Slow growth and lack of jobs contribute towards the increasing need for housing in South Africa. As does migration of people in search of better opportunities.
This has meant that the previous framework has had to be revisited as it is unsustainable and cannot tackle the housing backlog, nor can it assist those who fall in the ‘gap.’ In other words, those who earn between R3 501.00 and R15 000.00 per month, who cannot qualify for a housing subsidy, nor can they afford a bond.
The White Paper is reworking the legislative and policy framework within which the state, at all three spheres of government, can deliver housing opportunities. The ‘RDP’ based approach has been replaced by the NDP based approach, which the National Development Plan providing the basis for the development of this new legislative framework, in which GAP housing remains a key priority.
The public sector will be consulted with regard to the white paper, in early next year. Currently, the various provinces are being consulted for input. What has emerged is the need to create active beneficiaries. In the Western Cape, the People’s Housing Process (PHP) is the program by which beneficiaries are active participants in building their communities.
Human settlements is key in building an inclusive society. Today, the need is greater than ever for a whole society approach to delivering housing opportunities.
Press release
Media enquiries:
Matlhodi Maseko MPP – 082 085 7014
Western Cape Spokesperson on Human Settlements
Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Human Settlements in the Western Cape Provincial Parliament
