On 21 February, City of Johannesburg MMC for Human Settlements, Mlungisi Mabaso, met with the Fine Town community at the Multi-Purpose Community Centre to discuss the Draft Informal Settlement Policy.
The policy aims to upgrade informal settlements through a sustainable, phased approach, focusing on improving living conditions and delivering essential services over time. It prioritises community participation and seeks to develop integrated neighbourhoods with access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
The policy categorises informal settlements into three approaches: full upgrades, interim rudimentary services and relocations.
Addressing residents, the MMC acknowledged concerns about the illegal sale of informal settlement properties, calling it a serious form of corruption that is under close watch.
MMC Mabaso, told GLOBE POST: “We are aware of the challenges our communities face and are working to address them. A major issue is the lack of information among residents and poor communication from government entities. That’s why meetings like these are crucial-they allow us to engage directly with the community, address concerns and identify where we need to improve to deliver better services.”
Kanana Park Extension 3′ community leader Sabata Hlapane, expressed his disappointment, saying, “We’ve been living in an informal settlement since 2017, yet there’s been no real progress. The department keeps making election promises to secure votes, but nothing ever changes.”
Echoing his concerns, community member Tinyiko Masekaseka added: “They introduce new policies all the time, but we’re still waiting for real development. Where is the action?”
Residents are demanding accountability, saying they are tired of empty promises while their living conditions remain unchanged.
