South African Metros Under Review for Housing Delivery Efficiency

The South African Department of Human Settlements has initiated a comprehensive review process focused on the effectiveness of housing delivery across the country's metropolitan municipalities. This strategic move underlines a national concern regarding the current rate and efficiency of housing provision within urban territories, especially in light of the growing demand for adequate human settlements.

Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has voiced significant concerns over various factors impeding the progress of housing developments in these metropolitan areas. Particular emphasis was placed on issues of leadership and governance instability, which are seen as major impediments to the implementation of the department's initiatives.

A constructive dialogue with Gauteng metros revealed that while some improvements were detectable, the City of Ekurhuleni, in particular, exhibited a pronounced need for heightened focus and tailored intervention strategies. Such interventions have already shown their merit in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan, where the establishment of a "War Room" has markedly fortified its technical capacity and operation.

Minister Kubayi further pointed out that plans to replicate the success of the War Room in Ekurhuleni are underway. The intention behind these interventions is not only to boost service delivery efficiency but also to address and meet the immediate and pressing needs of the Ekurhuleni populace.

Commencing these proactive engagements is a substantial step toward realizing a more effective social housing program and service delivery model. The department has highlighted that extended interactions with other metropolitan areas like eThekwini, Mangaung, Buffalo City, and Cape Town will occur in the coming weeks to evaluate and augment their performance where necessary.

In line with these evaluations, the ministry disclosed intentions to compose a panel of legal experts well-versed in forensic investigation, audit, and data analysis. This arises from mounting public concern over the distribution and occupancy discrepancies prevalent in the housing subsidy sector, particularly concerning the Breaking New Ground (BNG) housing approach.

The Minister referenced instances where BNG houses were found to be occupied by individuals not deemed rightful beneficiaries. Such occurrences often involved manipulations of beneficiary lists or unlawful operations by syndicates, wherein rightful owners were dispossessed of their domiciles. Additionally, the contravention of acts—such as the sale of BNG homes within the restricted eight-year period—and occupancy by non-qualifying foreign nationals, highlight the critical necessity for a systemic overhaul.

As a requisite directive, the team of experts is to deliver a definitive report detailing property ownership and residency status while also laying the groundwork for potential legal action. The goal is to effect necessary corrective measures and reinstitute a sense of justice and fairness within the housing subsidy framework.