The Department of Human Settlements is a key department within the national government of South Africa, responsible for the development and management of sustainable and integrated human settlements.
Mandate and Objectives
- Housing Development: The department’s primary task is to facilitate the development of sustainable human settlements and adequate housing for South Africans.
- Urban and Rural Development: It focuses on both urban and rural development, ensuring that settlements are integrated with social and economic infrastructure.
- Policy and Planning: The department is responsible for policy formulation, planning, and implementation strategies for human settlements.
Key Functions and Responsibilities
- Housing Delivery: Overseeing the delivery of housing projects and programs.
- Urban Renewal and Upgrading: Implementing urban renewal and informal settlement upgrading programs.
- Legislation and Regulation: Developing legislation and regulations related to housing and human settlements.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with various stakeholders, including local governments, private sector, and communities.
Challenges and Issues
- Housing Demand: Addressing the high demand for housing and reducing the housing backlog.
- Informal Settlements: Dealing with the challenges of informal settlements and ensuring access to basic services.
- Sustainable Development: Ensuring that human settlements are environmentally sustainable and resilient.
Recent Initiatives and Programs
- Subsidized Housing Projects: Implementing projects to provide subsidized housing to low-income households.
- Upgrading Informal Settlements: Programs aimed at upgrading informal settlements and providing basic amenities.
- Integrated Development: Promoting integrated development that combines housing, social, and economic infrastructure.
Leadership and Structure
- The department is led by a Minister of Human Settlements, supported by a Deputy Minister and senior officials.
- It is organized into various divisions focusing on housing policy, development, and management.
Contact Information
- Switchboard Number: 012 444 9000
- Call Centre: 0800 1(HOUSE) 46873 (Weekdays 6a.m. to 10p.m.)
- Fax Number: 012 341 8512
- Fraud & Corruption: 0800 701 701
- Website: National Department of Human Settlements
