Title:
MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR URBAN LOW INCOME HOUSING: CASE OF CHEGUTU MUNICIPALITY, ZIMBABWE

Authors:
Nyarayi Jenipher Makamba

Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to establish management strategies for urban low income housing suitable for Chegutu Municipality. The study was motivated by the observation that vendors in Chegutu Municipal area who are part of the informal sector are failing to access residential stands. A qualitative research methodology was used to establish challenges in the provision of low income housing. The study employed interviews for key informants (The Town Clerk, Housing Director, The Town Planner and the Housing Officer). Semi- structured interviews, questionnaires, observations and documentary analysis were also used. A total of 64 respondents participated in the study. Research participants were drawn from Chegutu Municipality housing department, residents who were on the waiting list, members of the vendors association in Chegutu, the Ministry of local government Public Works and National Housing. The study found out that the cost of stands offered by Chegutu Municipality is prohibitive not only to those in the informal sector but even to those earning a descent salary in Zimbabwe. Provision of low income housing is considered as a high risk and low investment area by the private sector. The study concludes that provision of low-income housing requires a multisectoral approach. The study recommends the adoption and adaption of the participant involvement model by those in the informal sector for further implementation testing in other cities.