Building a Legacy

This case study unveils the transformative journey of Thozama Malefu (not her real name), a 39-year-old police constable and single mother in Makhaza, Khayelitsha, South Africa. She is among the emerging "homeowner micro-developers" who have undertaken the endeavour of formalising the age-old South African tradition of 'backyard.' The story begins with initial doubts and evolves into a heartwarming tale of newfound hope and opportunity. Thozama's determination and hard work have led to the creation of four beautiful flats at the rear of her property, serving as a testament to her dedication and the potential for change within South Africa's affordable housing market.

The practise of 'backyarding' involves constructing and renting out brick and mortar rooms or flats within the backyards of government-subsidised RDP houses owned by micro-developers. These homeowner micro-developers are addressing a crucial gap in the housing market that has long been overlooked by both public and private sector housing initiatives. They are catering to the needs of the "gap market," a segment of the population whose incomes fall between the thresholds for subsidised housing and conventional home loans. While precise statistics on the scale of this emerging sector remain elusive, this study highlights the tangible impact of homeowner micro-developers in providing dignified, affordable housing solutions to an underserved population. The transformation of Thozama's property is not only a source of inspiration but also exemplifies the changing face of affordable housing in South Africa. This case study sheds light on the valuable contributions and potential of homeowner micro-developers in reshaping the nation's housing landscape, offering a lifeline to individuals and families in need.

Abstract based directly on source.