CHAPTER ONE. The situational analysis highlights a number of challenges in the path of providing sustainable human settlements, which challenges are:

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1 1 CHAPTER ONE (A) BACKGROUND/INTRODUCTION The SDM, a category C municipality, consists of 6 category B municipalities, namely //Khara Hais, Mier, Kgatelopele,!Kheis, Tsantsabane, and Kai!Garib. There is a District Management Area (DMA) consisting of areas in the Kalahari, Swartkopdam private farmlands in the Kenhardt and surrounding areas, as well as the communities of Riemvasmaak. The Riemvasmaak community is situated 60km west of Kakamas namely Mission and Vrede Valei. The administrative head quarter of the SDM is in Upington (//Khara Hais). The area of about km, is bordered by the Orange River in the south, the Kalahari in the north and by Namibia in the west. The Council consists of 18 councillors, of which the Mayor and Speaker are fulltime councillors. The Mayoral Committee is the principle committee of the SDM. Other committee are: Institutional Committee; Socio - Economic Committee; and Infrastructure Committee. The Municipal Manager is the head of administration, which comprises the following Departments, namely: Financial Services; Corporate Services; Community Development Services; and Spatial Planning and Development Services. There is also a department in the Office of the Executive Mayor. The housing section resorts under the Community Development Services Department and is politically situated under the Socio-Economic Committee. The situational analysis highlights a number of challenges in the path of providing sustainable human settlements, which challenges are: Insufficient funding The conditional grant provided by the National Department of Housing is insufficient to eradicate the housing backlog by Capacity in department and municipalities

2 2 The municipalities do not have the requisite technical skills for implementation of the plan. Backlog in basic services Housing needs to be delivered alongside basic services for sustainable human settlements. The current backlog of basic services must be addressed by municipalities. Incomplete projects Road infrastructure There is no road infrastructure plan that addresses the development of road infrastructure for new housing developments. Poorly capacitated contractors. Poorly constructed houses Inputs of sector departments Sector departments such as SAPS, Education, Community Safety & Security, Roads & Transport, Health, Social Services need to provide development inputs. Accuracy and reliability of data for the purpose of development The municipalities do not have accurate and reliable data for planning. Lack of suitable land for housing development These challenges reinforce the notion that the HSP should address the following overall key areas, namely: - List of housing projects and budget implications - Developing strategies to meeting housing objectives - Identification, surveying and prioritization of informal settlements - Identification of well located land

3 3 - Identification of areas for densification - Linkages between housing and urban renewal - Integration of housing, planning and transportation framework - Linkages between housing and bulk services, social amenities, economic opportunities - Ensure security of tenure, - identification of appropriate tenure options having regard to the capacity of beneficiaries and the municipality - Intergovernmental relations In addition to those key areas housing development initiatives should: - Encourage the creation of increased job opportunities eg. through infrastructure development, housing construction. - Develop a job creation strategy. - Use labour intensive construction and other methods in furtherance of EPWP principles. - Enhance on-site housing material production, where possible Build opportunity to develop the required capacity to plan, implement and manage the labour-intensive housing programmes. - Supply chain management processes to incorporate job creation initiatives). - Employment of youth, woman and disabled - Use of emerging contractors - Compulsory training and development The SDM must take up the challenge of providing housing and related services of which the majority of the black population has been denied access. The HSP, as a component of the IDP is a vehicle through which socio-economic disparities should be addressed. The HSP is therefore linked to the concept of strategic and action planning, in order to bring about the desired development in the local, provincial and national context. It is therefore essential that the HSP be informed by the plethora of legislation and policies that provide a basis for effecting our developmental state.

4 4 (2) PRINCIPLES/AIMS AND OBJECTIVES The SDM has a constitutional responsibility to provide its inhabitants with access to adequate housing. The HSP is the embodiment of a commitment to translate the right of access to adequate housing into houses and other material gains. These principles, aims and objectives of the HSP represent standards that inform all efforts to give effect to the right of access to adequate housing, by pursuing the values of freedom, equality and human dignity. It recognises that South Africa is a sovereign democratic state based on the mentioned constitutional values. Further, recognizing that effecting the right of access to adequate requires a coherent and comprehensive approach, requiring the input of all stakeholders. 2.1 PRINCIPLES Trust, openness, transparency and equitable distribution of housing resources Mutual respect for the capacity and capabilities of stakeholders from different sectors and recognition of their limitations Valuing the distinct and complementary role of stakeholders form different sectors Respect the diversity and interdependence of each in housing and human settlement delivery Integrity, responsibility, ethical practice, accountability and effective leadership for delivery in the process and outcomes The involvement of beneficiaries and other stakeholders in planning, policy development and other pertinent decision making processes Root-Out corruption and maladministration in housing provision Promotion of the establishment of socially and economically viable communities and safe and healthy conditions for human settlement while ensuring that residential developments do not to impact adversely on the environment Housing development shall promote equal access to opportunities as well as promote equity in respect of race, gender, religion and creed Integrating social, economic, institutional, physical and environmental issues in development of sustainable human settlements whilst

5 5 ensuring that new developments lead to the integration of urban and rural areas in support of one another Residential development shall be economically, fiscally, socially and financially affordable and sustainable and houses shall have a market value Ensuring that affected communities actively participate in the development process Ensuring that development incorporates capacity building programmes that promote the utilization of local skills and resources as well as the participation of previously disadvantaged communities Only suitable land for human occupation shall be considered for residential/housing development Land for housing shall be ideally located next to economic opportunities to lessen the transport cost for residents going to work Land made available or considered for residential development shall be serviceable Higher densities shall be encouraged to ensure the economical utilization of land and services New housing developments shall comply with the minimum quality standards Promoting utilization of environmentally friendly resources and designs that focus on energy saving Creating synergy between man-made and ecological systems through the continuation of green spaces in human settlements and the utilization of environmentally friendly resources and designs that focus on energy saving Ensuring that the developmental needs and activities of people living in settlements are catered for and that opportunities for people to achieve their full potential through their own efforts are maximised 2.2 AIMS To provides the SDM with a strategic plan for housing development for the next five years. To provide the SDM with well-informed information to support allocations for provincial and national funding. To provide planners and decision makers at provincial level with adequate information to make decisions on resource allocation.

6 6 2.3 OBJECTIVES To improve skills/knowledge of housing officials in development and planning The fast-tracking of the provision of formal housing within human settlements for the poorest of the poor and those who are able to afford rent and or mortgages To fast track availability and affordability of appropriately situated land for housing development To remove administrative blockages that prevent speedy housing developments and To ensure consumer education/understanding in all housing development projects Utilising housing as an instrument for the development of sustainable settlements, in support of social structuring To improve financial capacity to undertake housing development projects/programmes To enhance coherency in development and planning To enhance stakeholder/public participation in housing development and planning. 2.4 METHODOLOGY The process of compiling the HSP involves: Information gathering The SDM provided assistance to local municipalities in its area of jurisdiction. Suitably qualified individuals were recruited and trained to conduct door-to-door visits to complete questionnaires. Information was compiled in the form of a report. Information was also obtained from the IDP s of municipalities, as well the Stats SA community survey 2007.

7 7 Analysis The reports that resulted from the fieldwork were analysed and trends were observed in relation to demographic information; housing demand, dwelling types, provision of services such as sanitation, water, electricity and roads and institutional arrangements. Strategies Appropriate strategies are developed which include the development of objectives, resource identification and clarification; and determination of time-frames. Projects Housing projects are developed in view of the identified resources. Integration Housing projects are designed and integrated with other delivery projects to achieve the desired positive impact on intended beneficiaries. Such integration is effected through aligning the housing plan with the IDP. Approval Before implementation, the HSP must be approved by Council.

8 8 CHAPTER TWO (1.) Legislative and Policy Framework Housing comprises a series of complex interrelationships between people, their needs and values and resources within a political and legal environment. This complexity requires a focused approach to efforts aimed at providing housing. National Government has started to respond by putting the necessary policy and legislative environment in place. This framework outlines the roles and responsibilities of different spheres of government in relation to housing, as well as dealing with aspects relating to the design and content of housing policy and legislation. In the context of this framework the SDM is required to take all reasonable steps to ensure the provision of adequate housing to its residents. 1.1 Policies National Housing Code (NHC) of 1994 The housing vision is outlined as follows: The establishment and maintenance of habitable, stable and sustainable public and private residential environments to ensure viable households and communities, in areas allowing convenient access to economic opportunities and to health, educational and social amenities, in which all citizens and permanent residents of the Republic will, on a progressive basis have access to (a) permanent residential structures with secure tenure, ensuring internal and external privacy and providing adequate protection against the elements; and (b) potable water, adequate sanitary facilities and domestic energy supply. The housing goal is outlined in the NHC as being: to increase housing delivery to a peak level op units per annum until the housing backlog is overcome.

9 9 Breaking New Ground Strategy of 2004 (BNG) The BNG is aimed at addressing colonial and Apartheid spatial planning and development through the delivery of socially, economically and spatially integrated housing delivery. Advocating housing as a tool to achieve integrated and sustainable settlements the BNG s objectives are: poverty alleviation, job creation, wealth creation and empowerment, economical growth, closing gap between 1 st and 2 nd economy, combating crime, upgrading informal settlements. Strategies in terms of the BNG are: progressive informal settlement upgrading, enhancing the location of new housing projects, developing social and economic infrastructure, enhancing the housing product, enhancing the role of the private sector, rural housing, financial arrangements, institutional arrangements, transversal programmes, institution and capacity building, information, communication and awareness. Rural and Urban Development Frameworks The UDF aims to promote a consistent urban development policy approach for effective urban reconstruction and development, to guide development policies, strategies and actions of all stakeholders in the urban development process and to steer them towards the achievement of a common vision. The UDF is engaged in four key programmes, namely integrating the city, improving housing and infrastructure, building habitable and safe communities and promoting urban economic development. The RDF co-ordinates integration of government programmes in rural areas and is aimed at: poverty alleviation through institutional development; investment in basic infrastructure and social service; improving income and employment opportunities; restoration of basic economic rights to marginalized rural areas; and finally justice, equity and security. Institutional development should enable rural people to set the priorities in their own communities through effective and democratic bodies, by

10 10 providing the local capacity and access to funds for them to plan and implement local economic development. Investment in basic infrastructure and social services involves the provision of physical infrastructure (e.g. housing, water and power supplies, and transport) and social services (e.g. basic health care and schools). Improving income and employment opportunities involves broadening access to natural resources (e.g. farming and grazing land, irrigation water, woodland and forests. Northern Cape Housing Development Strategy The Northern Cape housing strategy is an important document that guides the housing delivery in the province. The following are some key aspects that need to be considered with regard to housing development: Subsidy targeting with regard to income The lowest income categories i.e. households earning less than R3 500 per month, have benefited in this housing subsidy scheme. A person earning less than R3 500 per month qualifies for the full subsidy scheme. The second income category, i.e. R3 501 R7 000, needs urgent attention, as it is normally only concentrated on the full subsidy band of sub-r Norms and standards Provision of infrastructure is critical as the housing size of 40square metres, takes as bigger portion of the subsidy amount. Good quality houses should be constructed. At the time of writing this plan, the quantum for the top structure (full subsidy) is R Integrated housing development and land tenure Urban sprawl should be reduced though building compact cities with settlements located closer to employment centres. The Spatial Development Strategy Frameworks, as compiled by municipalities, sought to address this issue, as well as identifying future land for housing development. This should be in a logical manner.

11 11 Environment and energy efficiency Housing development programmes/projects should address issues of environmental degradation, as well as utilising energy-efficient planning systems. Housing for special needs HIV/AIDS patients, the elderly and the disabled seem not to have been considered in the delivery of housing. These groups should be ranked high on the programme for housing delivery within municipalities. Subsidy types and delivery methods Some subsidy types and housing delivery methods have been dominating housing delivery in the province in the past. Emanating from this practice, other subsidy categories will be given priority in order to accommodate different tenure and delivery options. Subsidy allocations to municipalities Allocations to municipalities will be transparent, take into account municipal population and be conducted on a multi-year basis. This will assist municipalities to develop long-term housing delivery plans. Role of municipalities Local municipalities are actual implementers of housing projects at the grassroots level while the province is co-ordinating this function. It is crucial that capacity should be increased at the municipal level so that accreditation may be effected for most municipalities. In this way, housing delivery will substantially be increased. Once accreditation has occurred, local and district municipalities will be expected to set up appropriate arrangements for co-ordination and implementation of housing programmes. Currently, the local municipalities fulfill the role of developer, therefore all local municipalities, together with Pixley ka Seme District Municipality needs to be registered with the NHBRC (in Kimberley) as developers. The local municipalities are also responsible to keep the Department of Housing and Local Government up to date with the progress on projects on a monthly basis.

12 12 Private Sector The involvement of the private sector and parastatals in both the funding and the construction process is critical in speeding-up and normalizing housing in the province. With this view in mind, it is important to ensure that provision is made for high, middle and lowincome categories in housing sector plans. It is normally an acceptable approach to sell land to private developers at a low price, in order to deliver affordable housing for the middle income group who falls outside of the subsidy band, but who doesn t earn enough to afford a normal bonded house. Housing and economic empowerment The housing subsidy scheme has given rise to empowerment of previously disadvantaged communities along with emerging companies. The emphasis on utilization of local labour has also contributed positively towards improving local economic development. The provincial department will strive to promote the economic empowerment of previously disadvantaged individuals, particularly woman and emerging companies. An example of the Department of Housing and Local Governments drive towards this initiative is the piloted Women s Build Project/s in the China Square settlement within the Sol Plaatjie Municipality. Regulation of the secondary market Beneficiaries of the subsidy houses tend to sell their houses far below the investment cost in situations where they need to relocate for employment reasons or when they are in dire financial strains. On the whole, the list of the needy continues to grow as, in most cases, they are unable to buy an own house. The department will therefore ensue that beneficiaries do not sell subsidized houses before the expiry of eight years form the date of acquisition. Capacity building The department has identified capacity building programmes as one of the most important tools in achieving improved housing delivery in the

13 13 province. With this view in mind, the department will strive to improve the capacity-building programmes in order to increase efficiency at provincial, district and local municipalities. Monitoring Several government policies acknowledge the need for monitoring and evaluation of housing programmes. In line with policy guidelines, the department will use the following three methods in monitoring housing projects in the province: Progress assessment of housing projects will be conducted on a quarterly basis. The impact assessment of housing delivery will be done with municipalities and beneficiaries annually. The strategy will be revisited in a three-year cycle. SIYANDA SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK General The SDF is expected to reflect. Vacant land analysis of strategically located land comprising: Location and size; Ownership; Current zoning; Value; Surrounding land use; Geotechnical conditions; and Most suitable use (suitability index); The SDF must: Must provide general direction to guide decision-making and action over a multi-year period aiming at the creation of integrated cities, towns and residential areas. Creating a

14 14 strategic framework for the formulation of an appropriate landuse management system, thereby: Restructure spatially inefficient settlements; Promote the sustainable use of the land resources in the country; Promote the integration of social, economic, institutional and physical aspects of land development; Promote integrated land development in rural and urban areas in support of each other; Promote the availability of residential and employment opportunities in close proximity to or integrated with each other; Discourage the phenomenon of Urban Sprawl in areas and contribute to the development of more compact towns and cities; Contribute to the correction of the historically distorted spatial patters of settlement in the Republic and to the optimum use of existing infrastructure in excess of current needs; and Rural Housing The South African political landscape demonstrates a renewed focus on rural development. In this regard a Department of Rural Development, under a new ministry has been established. It is therefore important that the HSP should pay specific attention to issues of rural housing development and related issues. Security of tenure within rural areas is a highly contentious issue where farm labourers are more than often the victims of evictions, unfair settlement practices on farms and the lack of settlement options within rural environments. The above, together with the housing need necessitates that a residential component be included which will be affordable and provide security of tenure. The demand for housing is related to the population size and economic performance of an area. The demand for housing is complex and differs for each of the different levels of the rural

15 15 typology. For example, the housing demand in former homelands can be expected to be much higher than in commercial farming areas. The above-mentioned accentuates the necessity of the housing component to be flexible and comfortable to apply to the context of each different rural area. The nature and the extent of the residential component will differ at every level of the rural typology and will be subject to the availability and nature of natural resources. Although it is difficult to determine the exact number of stands to be provided per rural service centre, the guideline should not be more than 250 stands. The total residential extent will be subject to the characteristics of the rural area (intensive vs extensive), soil conditions, the housing need and the availability of water sources. The intention is not to create large townships in the rural environment, but to provide an option to farm labourers and rural dwellers to obtain security of tenure in the vicinity of the areas where they work. In providing a housing component within the rural service centre, the following principles should be adhered to: The housing projects need to be financed by the Department of Housing and does not replace the initiatives of the Department of Land Affairs; The housing areas should exclusively be made available to rural tenants who are presently living and working in the area or who have been displaced actions; and The housing component must not be viewed as an opportunity for employers to dispose of their housing responsibilities There are advantages and disadvantages related to the inclusion of a residential component in the rural service centre complex. The advantages are the following: Alternative settlement options are provided to farm workers, informal dwellers and displaced rural families; Security of tenure is provided within rural areas; It provides access to facilities and services;

16 16 It promotes lower transport costs to reach families and services; and A linkage between the residential component and the market is provided, providing employment opportunities from home or nearby facilities. The disadvantages are the following: Farm workers could be separated from farms and other areas of employment Promotes ruralization versus the process of refocusing the housing policy to deliver affordable housing in the inner cities. The distance from the cities increases transport costs and decreases the efficiency of service delivery. All of these affect the sustainability of the housing component. More valuable agricultural land is used for residential purposes; An induced demand for housing will be created in rural areas and can lead to an infiltration of people beyond the catchments area; and The reliance on public transport increases to reach employment opportunities on farms. The sufficiency of the rural transport system can create a barrier. 1.2 Legislation Constitution of the RSA of 1996 Provisions of the Constitution that are relevant to housing are: the right of access to adequate housing in terms of section 26 of the Constitution; and section..which relates to the powers of the national, provincial and local spheres of government with respect to housing as framed in the concept of concurrent competence and developmental local government. Housing Act of 1997 and its Amendments The HA sets out three general principles, namely: giving priority to the needs of the poor in respect of housing development; consultation with individuals and communities affected by housing development; and ensuring that housing development is economically, fiscally, socially and financially affordable and sustainable.

17 17 The HA lays down general principles applicable to housing development in all spheres of government, defines the functions of national, provincial and local governments in respect of housing development, and promotes the role of the state as a facilitator of housing development. National government must establish and facilitate a sustainable national housing development process, provincial government must do everything in its power to promote and facilitate the provision of adequate housing in its province within the framework of national housing policy, while municipalities must take reasonable and necessary steps within the framework of national and provincial housing legislation and policy to ensure that the right of access to adequate housing is realised on a progressive basis. Section 3(2) of the HA provides that the Minister must monitor the performance of all spheres of government in relation of housing delivery goals and budgetary goals. Section 3(4)(i) of the HA provides that the Minister must, in relation to the duties of government, evaluate performance of the housing sector against set goals and requirements, equitableness and effectiveness. Prevention of Illegal Eviction from Unlawful Occupation Act of 1998 The PIE prohibits unlawful occupation of land, provides for eviction of unlawful occupiers. And prohibits receipt of payment of money as a fee for arranging, organizing or permitting a person to occupy land without the consent of the owner or person in charge. Housing Consumer Protection Measures Act of 1998 The HCPMA, which was promulgated on June 4, 1999, established the National Home Builders Regulatory Council (hereinafter referred to as the NHBRC), which is responsible for providing protection to all new housing consumers against structural defects.

18 18 An important protection in terms of the HCPMA is that no person may carry on the business of a home builder or receive money for the construction of a home unless that person is a registered home builder. Rental Housing Act of 1999 The stated purpose of the RHA reveals that government regards rental housing as an available alternative to homeownership, especially for poor people and historically disadvantaged people. Home Loan and Mortgage Disclosure Act of 2000 The HLMDA is aimed at increasing the level of investment in the lowincome housing sector and promoting fair lending practices by financial institutions. The HLMDA requires financial institutions that are engaged in the provision of home loans, to disclosure information in their reports and annual financial statements. The HLMDA provides for the rating of financial institutions, which rating is open for public scrunity. Development Facilitation Act of 1997 The main purpose of the DFA is to undertake land development projects speedily, especially in terms of the delivery of serviced land for low-income housing. The preamble to the DFA provides the basis for dealing with implementation measures within the legislation by stating that the aims of the DFA are, inter alia: to introduce extraordinary measures to facilitate and speed up the implementation of reconstruction and development programmes and projects in relation to land; and to facilitate the formulation and implementation of land development objective by reference to which the performance of local government bodies in achieving such objectives may be measured. The DFA provides that policy, administrative practice and laws should encourage and optimize the contribution of all sections of the

19 19 economy to land development so as to maximize the Republic s capacity to undertake land development The Land Development Objectives (LDOs) are used as a benchmark to measure performance and are implemented through Integrated Development Plans. LDOs must define objectives of the municipality in relation to access to and the standard of services, urban and rural growth, and the number of housing units and sites or Facilities to be delivered. In each of these categories LDOs must indicate the implementation approach to be adopted or the number of or the rate to be achieved. Less Formal Township Establishment Act of 1991 This Act inter alia provides for shortened procedures for the designation, provision and development of land, establish of townships and for less formal forms of residential settlements. The Act further provides for the acquisition of additional land to accommodate settlement needs. This Act is at present probably the most suited for the upgrading of informal settlements. Extension of Security Act of 1993 The extension of Security of Tenure Act is aimed at promoting the achievement of long term security to tenure for occupiers of land through the joint efforts of occupiers, landowners and government bodies. Through this Act, the rights of occupiers may be extended while giving due recognition to the rights, duties and legitimate interests of landowners. The long-term security of tenure is facilitated by the minister by granting subsidies: To facilitate the planning and implementation of development; To enable occupiers in need of long-term security of tenure to acquire land or land rights; and For the development of land

20 20 Municipal Finance Management Act of 2003 The Municipal Finance Management Act plays a central role in housing delivery because it regulates the procurement of service providers for the planning and implementation of national housing programmes and projects. Importantly, it also clearly defines the roles and responsibilities of the councilors and officials in the tender process. Municipal Systems Act of 2000 A municipal must undertake developmentally-orientated planning so as to ensure that it: strives to achieve the objectives of local government set out in section 152 of the constitution; gives effect to its development duties as required by section 153 or the constitution; and together with other organs of state contribute to the progressive realisation of the fundamental rights in respect of, among others, housing. In spirit of our democratic dispensation no development can take place without the effective participation of the communities it affects. Section 29(1)(b) of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000 requires municipalities to follow certain procedures to consult with communities and procure their participation in the planning process. As these structures have to be in place, they will be available and should be used to involve the relevant communities in the process of upgrading of informal settlements. Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act of 2005 The objective of the Act is to provide a framework for implementation of the principle of co-operative governance set out in Chapter 3 of the Constitution and also provides guidance for co-operation by national, provincial and local governments, and all organs of state to facilitate co-ordination in the implementation of policy and the delivery of goods and services.

21 21 Disaster Management Act of 2002 The Disaster Management Act 2002 (Act No57 of 2002) establishes a multi-tier disaster management system for the Republic. In terms of the prescripts of section 43 of the Act SDM must, establish a disaster management centre for its municipal area in its administration. SDM must further establish and implement a framework for disaster management in the district. The Municipality must, in terms of section 53 of the Act prepare and approve a disaster management plan after which it must submit same to the national disaster management centre, the provincial disaster management centre.

22 22 (1) LOCAL CONTEXT CHAPTER THREE The SDM has a constitutional obligation to progressively provide access to adequate housing through reasonable legislative and other means, within the availability of resources. It recognises that the right of access to adequate housing should be affected in the context of resource and other constraints, and the broader role of society to cooperate in fulfilling the obligation imposed by the right of access to adequate housing. It is further recognised that measures to implement the right to adequate housing must be balanced and flexible, and that the reasonableness of such measures depends on the context of their applications. Developing the appropriate response to the housing situation in the SDM therefore requires knowledge and understanding about the prevailing spatial, demographic and socio-economic context. 1.1 Spatial and Demographic context Spatial Context SDM forms the mid-northern section of the province on the frontier with Botswana. It covers an area of more than square kilometers (almost 30% of the entire Province) out of which 65,000 square kilometers compromise the vast Kalahari Desert, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and the former Bushman Land. The vast area is populated by roughly 200,000 people with a density of about 1.7 people per square kilometer. The DMA population is ±8600 of whom 52.2% are female, and 47.8% male. In spite of the enormous vast area, which the DMA covers, the area is sparsely populated because of the predominant agricultural characteristic. The provision of infrastructure and effective service delivery to the community must be seen as a challenge. The Orange River, the most important river in the region, flows from east to west through the Municipal Area, with a large amount of dry rivers also intersecting the area. The Orange River is perennial with a flow which varies between 50 and 1800 cubic meter pr second

23 23 (cum/s) depending on the season. The flow of the river is largely controlled by the releases of the dams upstream, like the Bloemhof, Gariep and Van der Kloof dams. The surrounding landscape is characterized by the Kalahari desert, wavy hills, sand plains, red sand dunes, agricultural farms and beautiful cultivated and along the Orange River. The area is a semi-desert area, with low summer rainfall levels. The average summer temperatures differ between 18 C and 36 C, with extremes of up to 43 C. Winter temperatures are moderate and differ between 3 C and 20 C. The SDM falls within a rain shadow. Rain generally occur early in spring and then again between February and April. Average rainfall of the area, differs between 150 and 200mm per annum. Underground water is not very commonly found in this area. Various farms in this area are uninhabitable because of the absence of good quality underground water. Within the region there are no significant dams on the Orange River. There are however various containment dams form which water for irrigation or urban settlement is diverted through canals. As a result of the low rainfall, the area has a unique vegetarian since two field types are found in the area, i.e. the Orange River scattered field and the Kalahari-Dune field, with a large bio-diversity of plants and animal species, which are endemic to the respective field types. Furthermore, an interesting blend of hydrous and drought resistant plant species appears, due to the Orange River flowing through a semi-arid area. In this way contrasts in plant life occur, e.g. Wild Olive and River Willow, versus Aloe, Quiver and Camel Thorn Tree

24 24 Demographic overview Population per municipality Source: Statistics SA: Community Survey 2007 Local Municipality Population Censor 2001 Community Survey 2007 Mier Population Households Kai!Garib Population Households //Khara Hais Population Households !Kheis Population Households Tsantsabane Population Households Kgatelopele Population Households Siyanda Population Households Population Censor Mier Kai!Garib '//Khara Hais '!Kheis Tsantsabane Kgatelopele Siyanda Community Survey 2007 % Change

25 25 Households Mier Kai!Garib '//Khara Hais '!Kheis Tsantsabane Kgatelopele Siyanda Censor 2001 Community Survey 2007 % Change The SDM is the second most densely populated in the Northern Cape (NC), with approximate inhabitants, constituting 23% of the total population in the NC. 2. Population: Age, Gender, Race, Marriage Age Breakdown Source: Stats SA: Community Survey Over 65 Mier Kai!Garib //Khara Hais !Kheis Tsantsabane Kgatelopele NCDMA08:Siyanda

26 Mier Kai!Garib '//Khara Hais '!Kheis Tsantsabane Kgatelopele NCDMA08:Siyanda Over 65 A significant portion (29%) of the population is composed in the age category between 5-19 years of age, implicating a high population growth under normal conditions and a typical fertility.distribution. A low percentage (6%) of the population falls above the age group of 65, implicating low mortality distribution. A large portion of the population falls in the age groups (28%), implying a strong economic base. Uncertain migration patterns, and long term impact of Aids make exact predictions of population growth complicated. Low cost residential areas experienced rapid growth, whilst high cost residential areas experienced moderate to slow growth (See SDF). However, an increase in population is expected to occur in both low cost and high cost residential areas. The SDM experiences a population of growth of approximately 11, 41% and growth in households of 18, 5% percent over the period Composition of Siyanda District Population Source: Stats SA: Community Survey 2007 Black Coloured Indian or White Asian Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Mier Kai!Garib //Khara Hais

27 27!Kheis Tsantsabane Kgatelopele NCDM: Siyanda Total Male Mier Kai!Garib '//Khara Hais '!Kheis Tsantsabane Kgatelopele siyanda Black-Male Coloured-Male Indian or Asian-Male White-Male Female Mier Kai!Garib '//Khara Hais '!Kheis Tsantsabane Kgatelopele Siyanda Black-Female Coloured-Female Indian or Asian-Female White-Female

28 28 The majority of households reside in //Khara Hais, Kai!Garib and Tsantsabane, of which the majority are Coloured and Black. Fifty percent (50%) of the population is male and fifty (50) percent is female. 2. Socio-economic context 2.1 General But for SDM, who indicated that it has conducted a recent socioeconomic survey, it is three or fewer years ago, it appears that the municipalities have not done so. Information used in the Budgets and IDPs appeared to be based on the 1996 and 2001 National census. The use of up to date socio-economic information is crucial to development and development planning, particularly at local government level. The issue of affordability is crucial to providing access to adequate housing. In this regard the relationship between employment and the sectors at the heart of the economy are important. In the agriculture and mining sector, the primary economic sectors in the SDM region, 61,3% of the formally employed is economically active showing a steady decline from 1996 (73,9%). Approximately seven percent (7%) of the population is employers in the agriculture sector, which is the highest employer in the SDM. Informal employment as a percentage of the economically active population, has increase from 2,4% in 1996 to 4,7% in Unemployment levels have risen significantly in both nominal and real terms. The unemployment in SDM stands at 28,7%. This figure is significant having in mind that housing is unaffordable for many employed citizens. Obtaining and having up to date information about income groups and employment statistics are crucial to determining those who qualify for housing assistance. It will enable the municipality to make sure that all those who qualify are on the waiting list.

29 Nature of the economy i) Agriculture Agriculture compromises grape production, which is mainly exported to Europe, owing to peculiar grapes that are ripe and ready for export before the grapes of other countries can reach these markers, as well as livestock and game farming. ii) Livestock Farming Livestock farming occurs mainly on large farms where farming is extensive. The larger majority of these farms are privately owned. The central parts of the region consist mainly of semi-desert areas and are therefore, with a few exceptions, mainly suitable for extensive livestock farming. Lastly, it should be mentioned that a large variety of game can be found on both private and conservation areas in the Region, forming an important base for the well-established game industry in the region. iii) Irrigation Farming There is also limited intensive irrigation farming in the surroundings of Byna-Bo and Schmitsdrift (Southern Farms) This is a very intensive industry and it contributes greatly to the economy of the region. iv) Communal Farming The only form of communal farming found in the DMA is at Riemvasmaak as this formed part of a land reform project and most of these projects are run as a communal type of farming. Agriculture is still the major industry in the district, contributing to job creation and economic growth. v) Minerals and mining in the district

30 30 Siyanda District Municipality accounts for about 30% of the Northern Cape economy. Siyanda s economy is largely dominated by mining and agriculture. There are however small pockets of various minerals. The largest are copper and zinc of Area chap north of Upington. Various small concentrations of calcite, lead, fluorspar, barite, wolfram and amethyst have been mapped but not really at a notable scale. Mining activity occurs in the local municipalities of Tsantsabane and Kgatelopele, where manganese, diamonds and the raw materials (ash) for producing cement are found. Processing / Beneficiation Basic agricultural products are exported from the area for processing and re-imported into the area as consumer products very little processing of agricultural products take place within the area. Processing of/adding value to agricultural products should be considered as a strategy to reduce dependence of the area on production of products that are processed elsewhere. Tourism Development There can be little doubt that tourism is one of the most important economic sectors in the Northern Cape as well as within the Siyanda District Municipal boundaries. Tourism is the fastest growing component of the economy. The local tourism industry, apart from the agricultural sector, should become the most important economic activity in the area in the next ten years, taken into consideration the current growth rate in both development and employment. Major tourism activities: - National Parks and Reserves - Eco-adventures and Safaris

31 31 Household income profile Comparing the different Local Municipalities in the region, it appears as if the annual individual income in the //Khara Hais region is the highest and similar to that is the annual household income. Annual Income Siyanda District Source: Stats SA Community Survey 2007 R1 R1 600 R1 601 R R R R or more Mier Kai!Garib //Khara Hais !Kheis Tsantsabane Kgatelopele NCDMA08: Siyanda Mier Kai!Garib '//Khara Hais '!Kheis Tsantsabane Kgatelopele Siyanda R1-R1600 R1601-R12800 R12801-R R or more The larger sections of individuals of the community resort under the lower income groups and 74% receives an annual income of R and below. Exceedingly small percentages (approximately 0.1%) of

32 32 individuals receive an annual income of R and higher. A similar situation could be determined examining the annual household income in the region. The larger part (approximately 23%) of households in the region receives an annual income of R and R The annual individual income in //Khara Hais appears to be the highest, similar to that in the annual household income.

33 33 CHAPTER FOUR (1) CURRENT HOUSING SITUATION This chapter aims at providing an overview of the existing housing situation in the SDM, for planning requires thorough knowledge and understanding of the status quo regarding housing. The data used are obtained from available census data, as well as information gathered from local municipalities. The data provides insight as to how municipalities fare in relation to the provision of housing. 1.1 Tenure status Percentage distribution of households by tenure status Source: Stats SA: Community Survey 2007 Owned Owned Rented Occupied rentfree Other and fully but not paid off yet paid off Mier Kai!Garib //Khara Hais !Kheis Tsantsabane Kgatelopele Siyanda

34 Mier Kai!Garib '//Khara Hais '!Kheis Tsantsabane Kgatelopele Siyanda Owned and fully paid off Owned but not yet paid off Rented Occupied rent-free Other 1.2 CURRENT HOUSING PROJECTS Location/Settlement Project Name Project Type Rental/ownership Allocation //Khara Hais Progress/Rosedale/Morning Ownership 487 Glory/ Pabalello Mier None None None Progress Kgatelopele Ownership completed!kheis Tsantsabane Zingana/Mbale Ownership 132 Kai!Garib Siyanda The identified projects will be factored into the five year action plan, where it is outline in relation to the following: - timeframes - responsible person/agency - output - indicators - project costs

35 35 2) HOUSING DEMAND 2.1 Waiting list Town Waiting list Yes No Mier //Khara Hais !Kheis Kai!Garib Tsantsabane Kgatelopele None 451 Siyanda None 341 Municipalities are employing a manual waiting list. Potential beneficiaries voluntarily place there names of the waiting list. Housing allocations are made on a first-come-first service basis. Major challenges with waiting list are lack of infrastructure and staff, as well of policy guidelines. In all, the waiting lists do not represent credible information. * See waiting list policy at Chapter Housing History Town Subsidy Yes No Mier //Khara Hais!Kheis Kai!Garib Tsantsabane Kgatelopele Siyanda A significant number of households have not access any form of housing subsidy in the past with Kai!Garib and Tsantsabane recording the highest numbers. No information is available from the other municipalities.

36 Housing backlog as at 30 June Municipality Houses //Khara Hais 8558 Mier 698 Kgatelopele 451!Kheis 1265 Tsantsabane 1824 Kai!Garib 3616 Siyanda 341 Total The table indicate that there is a housing backlog of in the SDM, with the majority of the backlog in //Khara Hais, Kai!Garib and!kheis. Information regarding specific areas where backlogs occur has not been provided. 2.4 Houses in need of rectification Town Poorly constructed Other Total //Khara Hais Disaster 162 Mier Kgatelopele !Kheis Tsantsabane Kai!Garib Siyanda Poorly constructed houses are mainly the result of the lack of capacity on the part of contractors. This occurs in Mier: Philandersbron (105), Rietfontein (130), Loubos (55), Askham (30), Welkom (40); //Khara Hais: Rosedale, Paballelo. Information of areas in Kgatelopele and Tsantsabane is not available.