Informal Settlement Upgrading in Cape Town: Understanding Participatory Governance in Ramaphosa Informal Settlement.

Abstract

In recent years there has been a rise of informal settlements in Cape Town, and other parts of the country. Informal settlements are not a new phenomenon in South Africa, due to apartheid spatial planning and segregated development, alongside rapid urbanization. Apartheid planning and urbanisation have enabled the growth of informal settlements, particularly as citizens seek alternative living spaces on the informal fringes of urban areas. This study examines obstacles to the upgrading of informal settlements in Cape Town, particularly Ramaphosa, a newly formed settlement on the edge of the City. The study was conducted using qualitative case study research which included fifteen interviews, online sources (Google Maps) and observation. During the course of the study I spent a great deal of time in the community of Ramaphosa, so empirical observation forms part of the methods. The study used Google satellite technology and Google maps, in getting a much better picture of the settlement.