Investigating the Supply Chain and Documenting Informal Housing Construction – Khayelitsha (21 May 2024)

Date: 21 May 2024

Location: Khayelitsha, Cape Town, South Africa

Research Investigation

On 21 May 2024, the UCT research team revisited Khayelitsha to examine the supply chain of materials used in the construction of informal housing. The investigation aimed to understand how materials are sourced, distributed, and utilized in the local context. As part of the study, the team also collaborated with local builders to construct a 3 x 3m informal home. The construction process was video-documented to provide valuable insights into building practices and technologies commonly employed in informal housing.

Supply Chain Findings

• Material Sourcing

  Most materials used in informal housing, such as timber, corrugated sheeting, and metallic fasteners, are sourced from local suppliers or scrapyards. Builders frequently rely on affordable, second-hand, or recycled materials to minimize costs.

• Transportation and Logistics

  Builders face significant challenges in transporting materials to construction sites due to inadequate infrastructure, narrow roads, and limited access to vehicles. This increases costs and delays projects.

• Supply Chain Complexity

  The informal construction industry operates through a highly fragmented network of suppliers, with little standardization in material quality. Builders often rely on personal relationships to negotiate prices and secure timely deliveries.

Construction of a 3 x 3m Informal Home

The team worked with skilled local builders to construct a 3 x 3m informal home. The construction process, which typically takes one to two days, was documented in detail to capture:

• Foundation Preparation: The home was built without a traditional foundation, relying on a screed for stability.

• Framework and Walls: The framework was constructed using timber studs, with walls made of corrugated metal sheets for affordability and ease of assembly.

• Roofing: Corrugated sheeting was also used for the roof, providing basic shelter from the elements.

• Assembly Process: The structure was assembled entirely on-site, with builders demonstrating a high level of technical skill and efficiency.

Insights from the Video Documentation

The video highlighted key aspects of informal housing construction, including:

• The rapid assembly process and adaptability of builders in constrained environments.

• The creative use of limited resources to meet clients' needs.

• The informal yet effective knowledge-sharing process among builders, where techniques are learned through hands-on experience and observation.

Challenges Identified

• Material Quality: The durability and safety of structures are often compromised due to inconsistent material quality.

• Cost Constraints: Builders prioritize affordability over long-term resilience, resulting in structures that may not withstand severe weather conditions.

• Lack of Formal Training: Builders rely on self-taught methods, which may limit the adoption of innovative and safer construction practices.

Recommendations

1. Improving Material Quality: Develop partnerships with suppliers to ensure access to affordable, high-quality materials.

2. Supply Chain Optimisation: Streamline logistics to reduce transportation challenges and improve the availability of materials.

3. Capacity Building: Provide training programs for local builders to enhance their skills and introduce them to alternative building technologies (ABTs).

4. Raising Awareness: Educate communities about the long-term benefits of resilient housing and the use of ABTs.

Conclusion

This site visit and construction exercise offered valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the informal housing sector. By documenting the construction process, the team has created an educational resource that highlights both the ingenuity of local builders and the pressing need for innovation and collaboration to improve housing standards. The findings will contribute to ongoing efforts to promote sustainable, affordable housing solutions for underserved communities.

Full site investigation has been recorded and is available on request.

Snapshots and Videos of the Site Visit in Khayelitsha