Public service delivery in the Gauteng Province : the case of housing development in Braamfischerville, Soweto, South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate and explore the challenges and problems experienced by the residents of Braamfischerville, related to the provision of housing, including the provision of services such as adequate water and electricity and roads in the study area. The research focused largely on how the challenges and problems related to housing affect the lives of the residents, socially and economically. It seems these houses were designed for people who are single and young, and will never grow and have families of their own. When considering the size of these houses, it becomes clear that they do not cater for larger families. The quality of the housing units in this area is of very poor standard. The mixed research methods are used to collect the primary data for this study. The use of both quantitative and qualitative methods are deemed most appropriate for this research study, as most researchers regard them as best methods in answering the research questions. Mixed approaches are also important in identifying issues, factors and relevant questions which can become the focus of a quantitative. The use of mixed methods has the assumption that both approaches can complement each other and help in avoiding unnecessary shortcomings. The findings revealed that the size of the RDP houses was not suitable to accommodate most of the residents in this area. The problem was caused by poor housing designs which resulted in very small, overcrowded RDP houses. Most of the RDP housing units are defective, mainly caused by the use of poor building materials and it was also found out that unemployment was a major challenge in Braamfischerville. The state has not managed to create jobs for the community of this area. It has become very difficult for these people to make improvements to and maintain their RDP houses. Provision of basic services such as water and electricity was found to be in order. The roads in Braamfischerville were found to be in very poor conditions. And that has negatively affected the socio-economic activities in the area. Finally, the land where this settlement has been established, was found to be inadequate. The area is situated very far from the places of employment and other facilities. Several houses were built on damp areas, flooding areas and on the wetlands. These houses are said to pose a serious danger to the occupants.