Joburg Grapples with Homelessness Crisis: City’s Interventions and Challenges

The City of Johannesburg is confronting an escalating homelessness crisis, described as “out of the ordinary” by Mayor Dada Morero. Speaking during a press briefing in Braamfontein, the mayor emphasized the pressing nature of the issue while announcing the relocation of his office to the Usindiso building.

Johannesburg’s homelessness crisis is believed to be the most severe in South Africa. City properties have become makeshift shelters, often leading to vandalism as displaced individuals seek refuge.

“Homelessness is a big problem affecting Johannesburg. We are probably the highest in the country,” Mayor Morero stated.

Addressing the Crisis

The City’s Social Development Displaced Person Subunit has been assisting approximately 20,000 homeless individuals since 2022. This intervention is part of an ongoing effort that dates back to 2007 when local government began actively addressing the issue.

Policies aimed at managing homelessness have evolved over the years:

• In 2008, the City Council approved a policy to address street children.
• By 2010, a broader policy focusing on adults living and working on the streets was implemented.
• In September 2021, the existing policy was reviewed, leading to the approval of an updated framework in 2022.

The City also provides targeted assistance for homeless individuals dealing with substance abuse. Medical assessments and psycho-social evaluations are conducted before beneficiaries are placed in rehabilitation programs. A six-week support program involves their families and prepares patients for reintegration through aftercare or placement in halfway houses.

Currently, the City operates two shelters for displaced persons, with a third in Hillbrow closed due to structural issues. A new shelter under construction in Devland/Freedom Park is 50% complete and will accommodate 200 individuals (120 males and 80 females).

Project Highlights:

• The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) oversees construction.
• The shelter has created short-term employment opportunities, with local subcontractors and laborers gaining hands-on experience.

JDA CEO Themba Mathibe affirmed the project is progressing on schedule, with the first-floor slab completed and work underway on the second floor.

Homelessness in Johannesburg remains a multi-layered issue requiring aggressive and collaborative efforts. Beyond immediate assistance, the City is also engaging communities to address the root causes of displacement and create a more inclusive environment for reintegration.

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com