White Paper for Human Settlements (South Africa)

The South African government has officially gazetted the 2024 White Paper on Human Settlements (PDF, 1.76MB). This marks a significant update to housing policy since the 1994 White Paper. This new policy framework addresses ongoing challenges in providing adequate housing and aims to rectify entrenched spatial inequalities resulting from the apartheid spatial planning. It also seeks to adapt to evolving societal needs, including rapid urbanisation, technological advancements, and climate change. The White Paper emphasises the development of integrated and sustainable human settlements, focusing on infrastructure, land use, governance, and socio-economic factors. Its implementation will rely on effective fiscal arrangements, intergovernmental collaboration, and innovative approaches to planning and delivery systems.

The White Paper is the result of extensive consultations with public and private sectors, civil society, academia, and communities. It aligns with existing macro policies, such as the Constitution of the Republic, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the National Development Plan (NDP). Key principles include ensuring accessibility, equity, and the right to adequate housing as enshrined in Section 26 of the Constitution.
 

For more information about the development of the White Paper in the lead-up to its adoption, see:

• the first draft of the White Paper for Human Settlements and

• submissions and media articles released during the public commenting phase of the draft White Paper.

Abstract based on original source.