Mawa Block 08 Peoples Housing Process

One of the main aims was to involve the community in the construction of the houses, and to ensure that the bulk of the money remained in the community. Thus, each person who was to receive a house was also involved in the construction of these houses, and received pay from the project funds.

The Department of Labour contributed R527 520 for bricklaying courses for the 115 people. A company was commissioned to make the bricks, but the owner was required to employ local people. The window frames for the houses are also manufactured on-site by local people. Sand for construction is also delivered by locals on donkey carts. 75% of the project money goes to the local community.

Innovation

The Mawa Block 08 PHP is an example of a good led project that can provide quality housing due to community participation and self-help initiatives apart from enforcing that outside companies hire locals for the project. The project is also an example of good partnerships between traditional leaders and municipality.

Effectiveness

102 houses have been completed to date, and the foundations are in place for the last 13. 115 people have also gained new skills in construction, and this could lead to future employment.

Poverty Impact

Created employment for 34 bricklayers (30 were locals); and 87 labourers (53 are women). 119 people have been directly employed; and another 50 have been indirectly employed (in making bricks, window frames, or in the transport of materials).

Sustainability

Project has been replicated in other areas. The funding from the Department of Housing will remain the greatest issue for sustainability.

Replication

The project could be replicated, and these sorts of projects have been conducted in other areas. The main issue would be the funding.

Partnerships

• National Department of Housing
• Provincial Departments of Local Government and Housing, and Labour
• Local Greater Tzaneen municipalty
• Merikoma Brickyard