At the Gauteng Partnership Fund, we recognise that affordable housing is more than just a basic need but a fundamental human right. A stable home provides security and dignity, and it is a foundation for economic and social well-being. Yet for many South Africans, especially those that flock to Gauteng to access economic opportunities, quality housing remains out of reach due to financial barriers.
As an agency of the Human Settlement Department, we are proud to make a difference in the lives of the residents of Gauteng by increasing access to social housing and ensuring that more residents live in developed, sustainable and inclusive communities that support the growth of Gauteng.
Social housing plays a critical role in bridging the gap between informal settlements and private property ownership. It provides affordable rental accommodation for individuals who are part of the “missing middle”—those who earn too much to qualify for government-subsidized housing but earn too little to afford market-related rental prices or bonds. This middle-income group is often overlooked in traditional housing models, and they are the biggest beneficiaries of social housing developments.
Beyond affordability, social housing promotes social and economic inclusivity; residents live near job opportunities, schools, healthcare facilities and public transport networks, improving their overall quality of life.
As a development finance institution, we support the development of social housing projects by working closely with the government, private developers, and financial institutions to fund them that provide quality housing while ensuring financial sustainability. These projects provide much-needed accommodation to residents and stimulate job creation in the construction and property sectors.
GPF has successfully co-funded multiple social housing developments across Gauteng, each designed to enhance urban living. Jabulani Views is conveniently located next to the main BRT route running through Soweto, the Jabulani Mall, sports grounds and the newly renovated amphitheatre. This wheel-chair friendly development has 140 one-bedroom units and 160 two-bedroom units, a mixed-use residential development that supports affordable rental options while contributing to the overall growth of Jabulani, in Soweto.
The Elijah Barayi Village mega project features 11699 mixed housing units, catering to a variety of income levels and tenure options.
These projects reflect our ongoing commitment to transform the housing sector into inclusive spaces where residents can thrive in inclusive communities.
The right to housing is fundamental to every individual’s survival and economic stability. We remain committed to expanding access to social housing and helping build a future where more South Africans have a place to call home.
Through continued collaborations and partnerships with government entities, developers, and communities, we will keep working to make affordable housing a reality, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of decent living conditions.
