Masters Degrees (Sociology)
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Browsing Masters Degrees (Sociology) by Author "Cloete, Jan Sebastiaan"
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Item Open Access Housing options for mineworkers in arid and semi-arid regions: the case of Kathu(University of the Free State, 2009-05) Cloete, Jan Sebastiaan; Marais, J. G. L.; Matabesi, S. Z.English: This dissertation entitled “Housing options for mineworkers in arid and semi-arid regions: the case of Kathu” was conducted against the background of a dearth of research into the provision of housing options for mineworkers in post-1994 South Africa. Furthermore, it was conducted against the background of the influence that arid locations may bring to bear on housing provision. The dissertation calls in question the applicability of current mineworker housing provision, given the realities of being located in an arid mining town. The dissertation initially reviews the international literature regarding development in arid regions and the effects that such arid locations have on the livelihoods of the residents. It is suggested that the residents of mining towns engage in multiple forms of livelihood because of the danger associated with dependence on a single livelihood. The cycles of development and stagnation of resource-dependent towns, which affect livelihoods, are discussed, as is an alternative to settlement. These international perspectives are followed by an investigation of the relevant South African literature to illustrate the effects of past social and economic developments on the historical provision of housing in South African mining towns. The discussion then moves on to more recent attempts by both the mining companies and national government to address the consequences of past injustices. The housing options available to mineworkers are illustrated by reflecting on the formulation and implementation of policies both by mining companies and government. Through reflection on two surveys conducted in Kathu (one among residents of a mining hostel and another among residents of a private housing scheme), it is shown that a significant number of mineworkers prefer not to settle permanently near the mine and would prefer to continue with circular migration between the mine and their areas of origin. While several factors have – for either sample – had an influence on the preference to settle permanently, only the presence of a/another home in their areas of origin indicated a statistically significant relationship for both samples. This gives an indication of both the existence of ties with the areas of origin and of the existence of access to multiple livelihoods. The data from the surveys further reflect the respondents’ preferences in terms of housing and their evident ability to afford such preferences. It is shown that while respondents’ choices are not always a reflection of their housing needs, most would not have problems in respect of affordability. While most respondents indicated that they would prefer to own, the long-term effects of settlement are questioned by reflecting on respondents’ lack of alternative livelihoods. Generally, respondents expressed high levels of satisfaction both regarding the housing scheme and the housing in their areas of origin. Addressing the overcrowding of the hostel should significantly increase the satisfaction of living in them. Against this background, the dissertation proposes that: the roll-out of rental subsidies be increased to those eligible in mining areas; the role of social housing be re-evaluated with a view to providing rental housing to mineworkers; alternative settlement patterns be encouraged in arid regions; alternative systems of infrastructure and service provision in arid regions be investigated; the choices of individuals be facilitated by increasing their range of housing options; current production decisions at the mine be taken into account to improve the benefits and reduce the costs of migrancy; a greater variety of housing options be provided to mineworkers so that they may choose one that is most compatible with their preference and livelihood; and that more education be provided to mineworkers regarding the possible consequences of both ownership and settlement choices for their livelihoods.