The MMC for Human Settlements in Johannesburg, Cllr Mlungisi Mabaso, has called on communities to contribute to crucial public consultations on the city’s new Informal Settlements Policy - a blueprint for transforming underserved communities.
During a community engagement in Ivory Park on 9 April 2025, Cllr Mabaso outlined the policy’s vision for coordinated development across Johannesburg’s 352 informal settlements - a number that continues growing.
“We need your wisdom,” Mabaso told residents. “You know best what solutions will work in your communities. This policy must reflect your lived experiences.”
Addressing Johannesburg's housing crisis, Mabaso revealed: “We have residents waiting since 1996. That’s why we're prioritising clearing the 1996/97 backlog while implementing interim solutions like re-blocking and service provision where possible.”
Policy Highlights:
1. Comprehensive Community Profiling
• GPS mapping of all structures
• Registration of residents and local amenities
• Identification of service gaps (clinics, schools etc.)
2. Development Priorities
Settlements will be assessed based on:
✓ Land ownership status
✓ Court orders requiring action
✓ Alignment with Spatial Development Framework 2040
✓ Development feasibility
✓ Duration of settlement existence
3. Sustainable Solutions
• Community participation at all stages
• Resident contributions toward services
• Title deeds for qualifying households
“The goal isn’t just housing – it’s creating sustainable communities with dignity,” Mabaso emphasised.
Most of the residents from informal settlements welcomed the policy introduced by the department. However, they asked that while the policy is being finalised, the department must address issues of electricity, water, sanitation and the bad conditions of roads in informal settlements.
Written by Penwell Dlamini
10/04/2025
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