Conflict in development: Lessons from the housing initiatives in Freedom Square and Namibia Square

This article draws on observations made over five years during the upgrading of a large informal settlement in the Bloemfontein‐Mangaung area. Eight ‘conflict zones’ are identified and discussed, with the aim of promoting a better understanding of the dynamics of conflict in development in general and housing in particular. Understanding these dynamics is pivotal for ongoing development, the successful implementation of the Reconstruction and Development Programme and sustainable housing delivery.

Notes

Department of Sociology, University of the Orange Free State (Botes). and New Housing Company, Central Division, Bloemfontein (Stewart & Wessels). The authors are grateful to Professor HCJ van Rensburg, Director of the Centre for Health Systems Research and Development at the University of the Orange Free State, for his helpful comments on this article.