SLUM DEVELOPEMENT CHALLENGES IN MEQHELENG, FREE STATE, SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

The literature shows that urban sprawl and rapidity in slum development is a concern in the developing world, including sub-Sahara Africa. The purpose of this paper is to report on the rapid growth of slums so as to provide an understanding of the associated problems, and how these issues should inform strategies for combating the downsides of slums. To provide more insights around slums, a case study design was used to explore issues noted from the review literature. The study was guided by the examination of socio-economic impact of slums located in Meqheleng in the Free State province of South Africa. From face-to-face interviews and observations, it was discerned that social exclusion and poor infrastructure are major issues in the studied slums and these gaps have huge impact on liveability in the area. These observations are evident in poor access roads, unaffordable public transportation systems and poor housing conditions. In effect, there is a major scope for both infrastructure and social re-engineering in the case slums.