Browsing by Author "Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent."

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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 the socio-economic impact of inner city urban regeneration as a strategy against urban decline : the case of Durban Point Precinct Development.
(2016) Mnikathi, Zinhle Pamela.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
Most of the inner cities and big towns have in one way or the other experienced urban decline. So many reasons can be attributed to urban decline, including but not limited to, property abandonment, crime, high unemployment and the rundown of inner city services, leading to the failure to attract new investment. The study was aimed at analysing the socio-economic implications of urban regeneration as an approach to curb inner city decline. The study focused on exploring the extent of the inner city urban regeneration strategy’s impact on primarily socio-economic issues in creating a sustainable inner city urban environment. This was by exploring the applicable inner city principles, the institutional involvement, socio-economic sustainability and the challenges and outcomes experienced with the urban regeneration Durban Point Precinct project, in proving whether it was an ideal strategy or not. The study utilised qualitative research methods, primarily face-to-face interviews, direct observation and questionnaires. The study was conducted in the Durban Point Precinct Development area, south of the Durban Central Business District, along the Durban beachfront to the harbour entrance. The development falls within the eThekwini Municipality Central Municipal planning region, under the strategic priority area within the eThekwini Municipality’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP). The study area is historically known to be neglected in terms of development, particularly because of the run-down areas within the study area. This study focused on investment as a catalyst for redevelopment in order to improve the Point area and reverse the much-noted decline and bad reputation of this area. With the current development of the Durban Point Precinct, a sample of six properties, inclusive of business operations and residents, was drawn out of the 54 properties selected for redevelopment within the area. As part and parcel of the sample size, five residents were drawn from the 45 units occupied. The theoretical framework for the study was based on: The Neoliberalism Theory, the Competitive City Theory, the Communicative and Collaborative Planning Theory and the Modernisation Theory. Arising from this, the findings of the study indicated that the Durban Point Precinct regeneration development project proved to be driven more towards the future economic success for a more mixed-use and waterfront destination, with minimal social success. It was further revealed how the regeneration project, although incomplete, provided sustainable measures through the satisfaction of the current residents and business operations, and with the objective of a world-class waterfront development. One of the study’s recommendations stated that in order to avoid public objections to the development, the local people had to be given the opportunity to participate in the decision-making process and be involved in the urban planning process. Regeneration of the area could also only succeed by finding the necessary partnerships. The study concluded that the inner city urban regeneration strategy was the ideal approach in dealing with declined areas as it placed much focus on economic and social life. It further concluded that in retracting the loss of the inner city, urban regeneration acts as a suitable tool in addressing redevelopment and rebranding of the inner city.
Assessing local job creation and employment sustainability within greenfields housing projects : case studies of Wiggins Umkhumbane and Westrich (Durban)
(2005) Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.; Adebayo, Pauline Wambui.
Most low cost housing beneficiaries either work in the informal sector with little income to meet all their basic needs, or do not work at all. They live in poverty because many of them are unskilled, unemployed, poorly represented economically, politically and socially. Hence the new South African Housing Policy is said to be enabling the housing environment to play a more meaningful role in job creation and employment sustainability. This is said to be achieved through skills transfer and giving support to small businesses which are geared towards more labour intensive opportunities. Job creation, in the context of this study, means training ,and the use of housing beneficiaries in housing construction. The provision of skills enhances beneficiaries to engage in self-employment programmes. Sustainability, on the other hand, looks at the use of dwelling units for small business purposes, the proximity of housing projects in relation to areas of employment, and the transfer of skills from place to place when required. After conducting a survey of 98 beneficiaries, the study revealed a lack of an effective mechanism for job creation and employment sustainability within greenfields housing projects. In order to provide both guidelines and recommendations for the effective implementation of housing projects, this dissertation assesses the extent to which greenfields housing projects have been able to create and sustain employment opportunities for housing beneficiaries. Case studies used to assess this aspect are Wiggins uMkhumbane in Cato Manor and Westrich in Newlands West. This study outlines failures and successes in the manner in which the above mentioned housing projects were implemented in relation to the creation and sustainability of income generating activities. This dissertation is structured as follows: The first chapter introduces the research problem, research question hypothesis, and the research method used to conduct the study. The second chapter provides both the conceptual framework and the literature review for the topic being investigated. International, national and local case studies are used to support the flow of the argument. Chapter three introduces the geographical and historical background of case studies in which the study was conducted. This historical background is linked to the topic of study to help to understand the phenomenon of employment. Chapter four deals with the presentation and analysis of data collected. The conclusion drawn from the findings and recommendations are found in chapter five.
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 economic role of small urban centre developments on the surrounding rural communities: a case study of Turton in uMzumbe municipality.
(2017) Dlamini, Bonginkosi Churchill.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
The economic role of small urban centres and their relationship with their rural hinterlands, which include movement of people, exchange of goods, capital and other social factors, play an essential role in the processes of both rural and urban change in every country. As a result, major spatial and demographic fluctuations have been characteristic for South Africa from the second half of the 20th century through to the 21st century, due to a dynamic process of primary urbanisation marked by intense migration trends taking place between rural areas and towns and cities. This study gives special attention to the economic role and prospects for small urban centres (concentrated areas with a population of 50,000 and below) in South African. It is interesting to look at the economic role of small urban centres as they are the first stage of the agglomeration of urban activities and therefore are supposed to have a profound influence on the spatial and socio-economic development prospects for the surrounding rural areas. With optimism to achieve a balanced economic growth and development between urban and rural areas, town planners and associated development practitioners have continued to be inspired by small urban centres while also admiring their potential economic role on the surrounding rural communities and contribution on the Local Economic Development (LED). The study assessed the economic role of Turton on surrounding communities of uMzumbe in comparison with the potential economic role of small urban centres on their rural surroundings as suggested by the by litteriture. To this end the study assessed whether the failure of Turton to bring about the apired economic gains to the surrounding rural communities was a result of poor planning interventions from the municipality, poor or lack of community participation and involvement or structural failure emanating from government’s unclear programmes and policies for small urban centres in rural municipalities. Qualitative information on the economic role of Turton on the surrounding communities was acquired using semi-structured interviews conducted with key informers involved in the development of Turton in uMzumbe Municipality. The information collected from the interviews was analysed by means of thematic analysis. After the analysis, it was discovered that the difficulties experienced by Turton in playing in potential economic role as a small urban centre on surrounding communities was a reflection of power struggles and unclear roles and responsibilities in the system of dual governance rather than integrated development for the rural poor. Therefore, the research concluded that small urban centres within rural municipalities would continue to struggle to achieve desirable objectives of rural development unless a new approach was adopted that regularised the functioning of the dual governance. A syntactic policy is needed to enhance the economic role of small urban centre development that will give effect to a synthetic model for the implementation that sufficiently integrates the theories of this research. This aims to achieve a solution merging small urban centre development plans with the rural development within the rural municipalities versus the dual- governance.
Assessing the level of stakeholder engagement during boundary demarcation and ward delimitation: case study of Ndwedwe Local Municipality.
(2016) Nguza, Zukiswa Nolufefe.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
Creating a sense of belonging for oneself and for a community is a fundamental requirement for human security and resource allocation. The sense of security as referred to in the latter can be in the form of boundaries which mark the territorial segments of an area characterized by different variables, such as the same ethnic group, clan names, and can further be seen as economic, administrative and political representation. During the apartheid regime, boundary demarcations such as ‘homelands’ and ‘group areas’ were used to maintain and enforce political control. However since the demise of the apartheid government, South Africa went through a period of bringing about change and amongst many, was social change, racial inclusivity, encourage integration as well as address land tenure and reform. The post-democratic period in 1994 represented a plethora of legislation and policies that came into effect to undo the scars engraved by disintegration of the apartheid system. To achieve this, the South African government then demarcated municipal administrative bodies guided by the constitution. Municipalities were further divided into smaller segments of wards to help redress the social and spatial inequalities inherited from the apartheid government, as well as help speed service delivery, where in 1998, the Municipal Demarcation Board acted as an independent organ responsible for carrying out demarcations. As an independent body, it has been prevalently faced with many challenges, many of which where their processes have been perceived as being biased in the sense that municipalities with communal land have suffered most. The demarcated democratic local authorities, as well as the long standing traditional authorities have created an overlap of arms of authority and have caused a lot of confusion amongst community members, and this has affected service delivery. In many instances this has led to boundary disputes that members of the community have expressed in an aggravated manner of riots and burning of community and social facilities. The study aims to determine whether or not the result of boundary disputes is caused by the lack of stakeholder engagement during the process of boundary demarcation and ward delimitation. By doing so, the study seeks to accomplish objectives of identifying the drivers of boundary disputes and how they can be resolved, as well as unpack the challenges associated in the process of boundary demarcation and ward delimitation and the key stakeholders involved in both areas. As a tool of collecting and analyzing data, this study has reviewed literature that focused on collaborative planning, territoriality as well as the inclusionary theory. This study has also reviewed government legislations and policies, and has used the latter in analyzing data obtained from the study area though a qualitative method of data collection in the form of interviews questionnaires and focus groups. In order to help speed service delivery, alleviate disputes and ensure good governance, this research study has been interested in investigating the causes of the disputes and the level of stakeholder engagement in the processes carried out by the MDB, using case studies, theories and legislative frameworks, as tools of evaluating and analyzing the demarcation and delimitation processes. The study found that the advancement of institutional criterion that governs the changes of boundaries in their respective hierarchies, has caused confusion to various stakeholders. This has also been primarily caused by the lack of insight in these geographic processes and the pieces of legislation that govern the process of boundary demarcation and ward delimitation. However the study concluded that the MDB has made means of consulting with municipalities and affected stakeholders in their processes, however the affected stakeholders felt that decisions weren’t in their favor. The study then recommended that responsive environments in local government and stakeholder engagement be created, as well as help strengthen the relationship between the stakeholders and the MDB, in which could be assisted by reviewing the criterion currently governing the demarcation processes.
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 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.
Assessing women's participation in planning and construction of their houses : a case study of the Piesang River People's Housing Project, Durban.
(2013) Khumalo, Phumelele.; Awuor-Hayangah, Rosemary.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
African women in the past were not given equal opportunities with men in planning and construction of their houses. As a result there is no clear indicative level of participation of women during the planning and construction of their houses. The People’s Housing Process is one of the approaches adopted by government and community organizations to encourage community participation in their housing projects but; women’s involvement is still not clear. Therefore this research is aiming to understand the activities performed by women, their roles in related activities, and the methods that they used to get involved in the planning and construction of their houses. A Qualitative research has been conducted to identify the level of women’s engagement in planning and construction of their houses in the People’s Housing Process (PHP) project at Piesang River. The findings of the study revealed that the Urban Poor Fund (UPF) savings system, together with the government subsidy for housing, empowered women to participate in planning and construction of their houses at Piesang River. Moreover; the findings indicated that town planning procedures and bylaws were not properly applied during project planning and implementation. In conclusion this dissertation recommends the formation of Municipal Community Partnership (MCP) for Piesang River FedUP community and EThekwini municipality, in which both stakeholders work together to address the way forward for the project in preference to continuing blaming each other for the shortfalls.
An assessment of the influence of the Community Based Plan (CBP) on the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) of Vulamehlo Local Municipality.
(2014) Majola, Zandile Charity.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
In the late 1990s consultants played an important role in the developing the Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) in various municipalities in South Africa including KwaZulu- Natal. What has been noticed is that, there has been a poor progress with regard to community participation in the formulation of the IDP. It was impossible for communities to make meaningful contribution into inter-sectoral opportunities for development. Community Based Plan is one of the tools initiated by the current government to encourage community participation in developing IDPs. Therefore this research is aiming at assessing the influence of the Community Based Plan on the Integrated Development Plan of Vulamehlo Local Municipality. The study was carried by looking at roles of ward committees and other role players during the community based planning and the integrated development plan processes. A qualitative research method was used to identify challenges which are associated with the use of the community based plan. The study looked at various theories of community participation including collaborative theory, bottom-up approach, the theory of citizen participation and Arnstein’s ladder of participation in order to understand the importance of community participation in the CBP and IDP process. The findings of the study revealed that the key challenge was lack of feedback from the officials indicating that there is no constant feedback from the officials indicating that there is no constant feedback provided to the community regarding community based once it is developed. Moreover the findings indicated that ward committees are unable to play their role effectively during the IDP process. They only participate during the IDP roadshows/izimbizo and are not involved from the inception to implementation. Both local and international case studies were used to support the idea that community participation should form part of the compilation of both the community based plan and the Integrated Development Plan. The culture of community participation enhances cooperation and effective implementation of municipal developmental programmes. In conclusion this dissertation recommends that community based plan does have an influence towards the integrated development plan of the municipality, but its effectiveness lies in the proper planning and giving it the attention it deserves as one of the tools to be used to promote community participation in the affairs of the municipality.
An assessment of the role of public-private partnership models in the delivery of affordable housing in South Africa : a case study of SOHCO Property Investments, Durban.
(2015) Blose, Nolwazi Lindelwa.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
Social housing is an instrument that is used to facilitate the production of effectively managed institutional housing. Social housing may take various forms and is managed by social housing institutions through public and private funding. A commitment towards social housing in South Africa was seen during the years between 1995 and 2000, with the establishment of the National Housing Finance Corporation which began initiatives in the country for social housing. However, as time went by, providing affordable housing became more of an issue than a solution for the South African government. The public sector realised that combating the issue of the affordable housing shortage would not happen with their limited resources and capacity. This brought about engagements with the private sector to assist in this regard. This is where the notion of public-private partnerships is formed in the delivery of affordable housing. Theories such as Neoliberalism and the Enabling Approach support and illustrate the importance and the role of public-private partnerships in order for government to produce public services or infrastructure to a country. This dissertation assessed the role of public-private partnerships and its extent in the delivery of social housing in South Africa. The assessment was enhanced by evaluating and drawing comparisons between two main public-private partnership models used in South Africa, which are the Build Operate Own Transfer model and the Build Operate Transfer model. This study also evaluated which model is more commonly used in order to deliver social housing in Durban and the challenges that are experienced through this public-private partnership arrangement by the government and the private sector. A social housing institute and one of its projects in Durban was used as a case study for this dissertation in order to evaluate how social housing institutions and the government come together in a public-private partnership arrangement to deliver social housing. Information was collected through interviews conducted with professionals in both the public and private sectors. The interviews were able to demonstrate interesting contrasts and similarities in public-private partnerships, with the build operate transfer model being of preference when delivering social housing. The main findings were that social housing institutions are seen as a vital factor; however they require better support and assistance from government in order to make social housing more sustainable and to create more viable projects. This assistance can be done through more incentives, better funding, land availability, and restructuring of zones for social housing development. Government is faced with the challenge of the lack of social housing institutions in order to assist with social housing development. The study proposes recommendations on improving public-private institutions for delivering social housing by both the private and public sectors. These recommendations include the introduction of better incentives to attract more private sector involvement, more government funding, better understanding of procedure by social housing institutions and more engagement between both sectors, particularly by social housing institutions and private entities.
An assessment of the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) in monitoring and evaluating the progress of in-situ upgrading of informal settlements : a case study of Cato Crest Informal Settlement, eThekwini Municipality.
(2014) Mazeka, Bahle.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
As a point of departure, this study investigates the innovative use of geographic information system (GIS) as a technological tool for urban governance in South Africa used for monitoring and evaluating informal settlement upgrading projects, using the case of Cato Crest informal settlement in eThekwini municipality. In South Africa, the number of informal settlements continues to increase perpetuated by phenomena such as rapid urbanisation and poverty; notwithstanding of the goal of the Department of Human Settlements to eradicate all informal settlements by 2014. The BNG advocates for in-situ upgrading as the preferred approach for settlement upgrading as it seeks to improve settlements in their current location through the provision of services, and secured land tenure. In-situ upgrading is a holistic approach with an emphasis on eliminating social exclusion, poverty, and vulnerability. Favouring neoliberal policies has resulted in increased poverty as people are not able to compete in formal housing markets due to insufficient capital. Technological adaptation is barred by lack of support from top management and capital resources. This research adopted a qualitative research design, utilizing primary and secondary sources of data, employing semi-structured interviews, questionnaire, observation, GIS based methods of digitizing, and buffering as data collection methods. Data is analysed through thematic analysis and GIS technology, and findings presented in cartographic display. The research has found that, among other things, eThekwini municipality utilizes GIS through the ISP to inform decisions for housing projects. However, GIS continues to face barriers in monitoring and evaluating in-situ upgrading of informal settlements as spatial data is updated annually; thus unable to map spontaneous land invasions as they occur throughout a year cycle. Notwithstanding, the in-situ upgrading of Cato Crest informal settlement has impacted the community positively through the provision of services, and secured land tenure, preserve socio-economic networks, and integration of the settlement into the broader urban fabric.
A critical evaluation of community participation in the planning and re-blocking of informal settlements.
(2019) Zikalala, Sifiso Nhlakanipho.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
This research study critically evaluates community participation in the re-blocking of informal settlement. KwaMathambo informal settlement re-blocking project in Durban is used as a case study. The re-blocking process is done to improve the structure, living conditions in the informal settlement and enhance community participation in planning and implementation of projects. The aim of this study is to establish the extent to which community participation added value to the success of the re-blocking of informal settlements in the KwaMathambo. Furthermore, the study is to critically evaluate of the involvement of the community in the planning and re-blocking of informal settlements. The study employed qualitative research methods, based on observations and interviews with community members and supporting stakeholders. The study was informed by international and national literature (i.e. precedents studies) on the best practices and benefits of re-blocking of informal settlements. The post-modernist theories such as communicative planning theory and advocacy planning provided the theoretical background for the study and enabled an understanding of the role of community in re-blocking informal settlements. The study established that the involvement of the community in planning and re-blocking of informal settlement is of great significance. The study established that in the re-blocking process, community participation is well detailed. Hence the successful re-blocking of KwaMathambo is a result of community having total control, and a detailed plan to implement re-blocking. However, the study found challenges that hindered re-blocking of KwaMathambo included lack of understanding of the process by all stakeholders especially the municipality. Furthermore, factors such as political interference, unemployment, dependent mind-set, and alcohol abuse also hindered re-blocking process. The study, therefore, recommends community members in informal settlements and various s stakeholders be well informed about re-blocking and its benefits. Collaboration and enhanced communication between communities, government, civil societies and the private sector in engaging adequate measures for participation and developing mechanisms for conflict resolution and effective re-blocking of informal settlements.
Evaluating low income housing construction challenges and their impact in completing housing projects on time : case studies of Mpumalanga and uMlazi Housing Projects.
(2016) Malinga, Thembinkosi Treasure.; Myeni, Wonderboy Vincent.
In terms of housing development in South Africa, the delivery of low income housing is a vital process in providing satisfactory housing for the less fortunate and the imperfectly accommodated, which is an effort to decrease poverty and improve quality of lives which has been a challenge for South African government over the years. The South African citizens have the right to access adequate housing. The government has provided housing but the houses are not delivered on time. In between the duration of housing projects, there are certain challenges that arise which delay the projects and affect the completion date. This study was aimed at finding the challenges that are encountered during the construction of low income housing and how they have an impact on completing housing projects on time. The research study made reference to uMlazi and Mpumalanga Housing Projects. The data for this study was gathered through conducting semi-structured interviews with project managers, contractors, the KZN department of human settlements and beneficiaries. The findings gathered from the informants were analysed using thematic analysis. After the analysis of the findings, it was evident that more challenges were experienced by project managers who were responsible for the project from the conceptual stage to the handing over stage. The contractors did experience challenges which were dealt with sometimes with the help of the project manager. It also helped the contractors to work with experienced project managers. The KZN DHS was affected by the delays financially as the projects were not completed on time. From the finding, recommendations were provided which involved; The project manager must know how to manage exceptions and risks because there are always risks in every project; Good early cost advice is essential in order that the best possible information be available on which the judgement to abort, amend or proceed with the project can be made; communication is vital when dealing with the beneficiaries or the community where the project is taking place; If construction has to take place on steep slopes and there is no option of relocation, there has to be a bigger budget amount for the construction of the project and developing a schedule which includes adding time to the original schedule just in case something important is delayed unexpectedly was recommended.