Date of Award

4-1991

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Geography

Supervisor

L.J. King

Abstract

Squatting is a common phenomenon, but its nature is different under various social-economic systems. This thesis emphasizes the need for careful consideration and identification of these different features and calls for a reorientation of the strategies adopted towards the alleviation of squatting. The study begins with a description of the geography of squatting in South Africa emphasizing the Pretoria-Witwatersrand-Vaal region which is the major industrial region. It then reviews the Government policies that were used to address the urban black housing backlog and the policy responses to squatter settlements in South Africa. This review involves a description of the historical development of the present social - economic structure of the South African community, which is seen as a basis for an explanation of the urban black-housing backlog and squatting. An examination of the legislation associated with black urbanisation in general is made. This legislation is used as a point of reference for the development of an explanation of the nature of squatting and its persistence. Based on this understanding of the social-economic structure of South Africa and urban black housing, an evaluation of the Government policies is made and certain possible solutions to South African squatting are recommended.

McMaster University Library


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