SAHRC Raises Concerns Over Ongoing Housing Crisis In Western Cape

South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) raises concerns about the ongoing housing crisis in the Western Cape. The commission highlighted inefficiencies and a lack of transparency in the allocation of housing during a stakeholder engagement held on Tuesday.

SAHRC revealed that it had received numerous complaints from residents who are struggling to access adequate housing, despite being on the waiting list for years. The Western Cape Provincial Office (WCPO) of the SAHRC reported that some residents have faced decades-long delays.

Among the complaints are those of a pensioner who has waited 20 years, a military veteran alleging delays, and a parent of a disabled child who has been waiting since 2017.

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Other complaints suggest discrepancies in the housing system, with some applicants claiming that their names were removed or overlooked, despite applying long before others who have already received housing.

In December 2024, the WCPO sent information requests to 22 municipalities across the province, seeking clarity on housing allocation methods, waiting list transparency, and housing demand. Only 10 municipalities provided detailed responses, while 12 failed to reply.

Responses revealed that eligibility criteria largely align with national policies. These policies prioritize applicants who are 60 years or older, military veterans, farmworkers, and people with permanent disabilities.

However, the SAHRC found that transparency in the housing allocation process remains a significant issue. While some municipalities allow applicants to check their status through call centres, emails, or roadshows, only three municipalities provided comprehensive responses regarding these processes.

Moreso, the commission also discovered that housing delivery rates across municipalities have varied significantly since January 2015. Some municipalities have delivered as little as 3% of the housing required, with the average delivery rate at just 12.82% in relation to demand.

SAHRC has called for greater accountability and efficiency in the allocation of municipal housing. “Key issues relating to housing allocation methods and transparency must be addressed to protect and advance the human rights of residents in need,” the commission stated.

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It also urged relevant stakeholders to collaborate on sustainable solutions that ensure fair and timely housing distribution for all residents in need.

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