FINANCE MATTERS
Creating a more supportive , enabling and inclusive accreditation process
By Mpolai Nkopane , Acting CEO of the Social Housing Regulatory Authority
In South Africa ’ s drive towards inclusive economic growth and social development , we cannot ignore that where a person lives - and the cost of their dwelling - plays a vital role in restructuring our society .
Affordable homes in far-out locations are not conducive to this goal , as the necessity of travelling to work may cost as much as 50 % of a minimum wage salary . At the same time , urban homes in proximity to work opportunities are either unaffordable or in terrible condition . Understanding this conundrum means understanding the value and importance of South Africa ’ s social housing initiatives .
Social housing is state-subsidized rental housing targeted at low- to medium-income groups earning between R1 500 and R15 000 . This housing offers dignified and well-located housing opportunities for our people and plays a vital role in addressing structural , economic , social , and spatial dysfunctionalities . Considering the importance of these developments , one can understand why this initiative requires professional management and oversight to ensure projects are developed with quality , integrity , and transparency at the fore . In simple terms , that is the purpose of the Social Housing Regulatory Authority ( SHRA ).
More specifically , the SHRA enables , regulates , and drives investment into the social housing sector , bringing together all the necessary role players who work towards this common goal . At the forefront of this mandate is a no-nonsense approach to corruption , with a firm handle on the regulatory and compliance aspects of social housing projects . This ensures that projects meet their goals , benefitting tenants while offering work opportunities for accredited social housing institutes ( SHIs ) and other delivery agents ( ODAs ). These are entities that are accredited and guided by the SHRA to carry out social housing projects .
We strive to work with these and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth and efficient process . In line with this , the
Mpolai Nkopane , Acting CEO of the Social
Housing Regulatory Authority .
SHRA recently released our new Compliance Accreditation & Regulations ( CAR ) Operational Framework which helps create a more supportive , enabling and inclusive accreditation process for SHIs and ODAs . The framework was put together after a fruitful stakeholder engagement session towards the end of 2020 and addresses key concerns raised while also strengthening our compliance and monitoring process . This ultimately ensures that social housing developments are rolled out transparently and to the true benefit of society . With our role as the Authority , there is no room for misconduct . Indeed , our firm approach to compliance means we can meet our mandate and help house South Africa ’ s people – affordably and sustainably .
SHRA
“ More specifically , the SHRA enables , regulates and drives investment into the social housing sector .”
www . saaffordablehousing . co . za SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2021 11