411
Draft Policy Seeks to Formalise Johannesburg’s Growing Informal Communities
Johannesburg is taking steps to address long-standing challenges in its informal settlements by consulting the public on a new draft policy. This move comes as more than 350 informal communities remain without formal recognition or consistent service delivery.
During a public participation session held at the South Rand Recreation Centre in Welfare Park, Human Settlements MMC Mlungisi Mabaso highlighted the need for a more coordinated and effective approach.
@southern.courier MMC for Human Settlements, Mlungisi Mabaso, addressed the public, stating some challenges and how the policy would help pave the way forward.
Mabaso told residents that the draft Informal Settlements Policy aims to bring structure and improved planning to areas that have historically been neglected. He stressed the urgency of formalising settlements and providing reliable services such as electricity and water.
“We have over 352 informal settlements in Johannesburg and haven’t formalised even one,” Mabaso admitted. “When we plan for 300 households, we return to find 700. This constant shift makes budgeting and implementation almost impossible.”
The policy aims to guide the city on handling settlements built on wetlands, private land, and undeveloped areas, while also cracking down on illegal activities like selling water and electricity or renting out multiple shacks.
He said the new approach would bring together city entities like Johannesburg Water and City Power, which currently operate independently in informal settlements, often without coordination or long-term planning.
Mabaso urged residents to use this public consultation to shape policies that could affect their daily lives for years to come.
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
Sourced:Comaro Chronicle
Picture: City Of Joburg
