Forthcoming industry event information and revue of recently held functions

Whatever differences there may be between the housing industry in the UK and South Africa, policies to create sustainable communities, ensuring adequate housing for those in greatest need and doing so in a way which encourages different organisations and different sectors of the community to work together more effectively are not restricted to any one country

RBA Holdings handed over the first homes at Main Reef Village, west of Soweto last month. Residents took occupation of their homes at a ribbon cutting ceremony which was attended by Nomvula Mokonyane, the Gauteng MEC for Housing

Despite the fact that it has been reported that the Botswana Housing Corporation is failing in its mandate, asit has essentially resorted to operating as a private real estate company, the Botswana Minister of Lands and Housing, DN Seretse addressed the issues of Vision 2016 at the recently held SAHF Conference and exhibition

Pennyville, an affordable housing project in Pennyville Ext 1 opposite New Canada Station, south west of Johannesburg, is being constructed almost exclusively with precast concrete components

The emerging black middle class is keeping the South African residential property market vibrant in the price range of around R800 000 and below despite rising interest rates and building costs

The almost certain prospect of further interest rate hikes will put more pressure on property sellers and ensure a real consolidation in the property market during 2008, with prices likely to show flat-line growth at best

Industry news and views from Southern Africa

Various construction products and services are highlighted for revue

News briefs concerning the housing and construction industries from within the Southern Africa region

What constitutes a 'just and safe' city in global terms?

Current and proposed upmarket developments within Southern Africa are discussed