Security of tenure as a means towards achieving improvements in housing in self-help housing projects : a case study of Nazareth and Bester's Camp.

Abstract

The research investigates housing improvements in low income settlements in South Africa. Using a comparative study of Bester's Camp and Nazareth, the investigation interrogates the impact of the subsidy scheme provided by the government. This logically encompasses a close scrutiny of such issues as: the land tenure system and its effects on the housing for low income groups, the obstacles that poor households have regarding housing improvements and accessing credit facilities. Burgess' arguments on the income's influence on housing improvements and Turner's idea of security of tenure as a factor laying foundation for housing improvements to take place, respectively, are juxtaposed in order to analyse trends of investments in housing in South Africa. The dissertation endeavours to contribute to the current housing debates by offering recommendations that can go a long way to alleviate the problems raised in the study.