The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) and the University of the Free State (UFS) invite you to join a public seminar on housing and urban economic development in Southern Africa, specifically focusing on the role of the small-scale rental sector.
A growing proportion of urban dwellers in the SADC region live in informally constructed, small-scale rental accommodation provided by individual homeowners and emerging entrepreneurs. These solid structures are more habitable than rudimentary dwellings, and more affordable than formal houses. Drawing on recent collaborative research involving scholars from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, South Africa and Zimbabwe, this seminar will discuss the significance of small-scale rental housing for urbanisation in the region and unpack the actual and potential contribution the sector can make to economic development and sustainable cities.
Key highlights:
- Opening remarks from UFS and HSRC dignitaries
- Presentations from in-country collaborators (University of Botswana, National University of Lesotho, University of Eswatini, University of Zimbabwe, UFS and HSRC)
- Response from regional experts
- Open discussion and opportunities for collaboration
Date: Monday, 5 August 2024
Time: 13:30 – 15:30
Location: University of the Free State, and virtual via Zoom
Register to attend: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAsduqgrTIjE9Y_ITxrknduwtRYCoKDSCtx
Contact: For more information, please contact Prof. Andreas Scheba (ascheba@hsrc.ac.za) or Prof. Abraham Matamanda (MatamandaRA@ufs.ac.za)
View the programme below: