Lessons learned from in situ upgrading and eradication of informal settlement in Gauteng Province in South Africa

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to give an insight into lessons learned so far on the in situ upgrading and eradication of informal settlements in South Africa. This is with a view to accessing progress made to date, the line of focus and to ascertain whether in situ upgrading or eradication of informal settlement is the best option in solving the problem of informal settlement integration into the large society. Design/methodology/approach – The research is conducted with reference to existing theoretical literature, published and unpublished South Africa research. The study is mainly a literature survey/review and looks at challenges that have been overcome to bring about the success made to date, thus striving to achieve the goals and objectives of a city without slums. The research ties up the identified challenges with recommendations to the problems to enhance the reality of having a city without slums. Findings – One of the primary findings that emanated from the study revealed that all development where people have to be displaced or inconvenienced has come with problems. Other findings attribute the little success achieved to date to the in situ upgrading of the existing settlement and the eradication of the settlement. Though policy activated has not been well implemented for the betterment of all, progress has been made nonetheless. Originality/value – The upgrading and eradication of informal settlement have long been a subject of global discussion, which has taken firmer root since it was declared to be one of the Millennium Development Goals agenda. The paper contributes to this body of knowledge.