PUB2622
ASSIGNMENT 2
DUE DATE: AUGUST 2026
, The Application of the Typology of Participation in the Masakhane Informal
Settlement Upgrading Project
1. INTRODUCTION
Public participation is an important part of democracy, especially in South Africa, where
the Constitution requires citizens to be involved in decisions that affect their lives
(Republic of South Africa, 1996). The Masakhane Informal Settlement in Ekurhuleni
faces problems such as poor housing, lack of clean water and sanitation,
unemployment, and poor roads. To address these problems, the municipality plans to
improve basic services, build roads and community facilities, and provide subsidised
houses.
The success of this project depends on meaningful public participation. The Typology of
Participation shows five levels of community involvement: Passive Participation,
Participation by Consultation, Functional Participation, Interactive Participation, and
Self-mobilisation. These levels range from limited involvement to residents taking an
active role in making decisions and leading development.
2. UNDERSTANDING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Public participation is defined as the voluntary involvement of people in making and
implementing decisions that directly affect their lives (United Nations Centre for Human
Settlements, 1991). In a democratic country such as South Africa, citizens have the
right to participate in activities that affect their future (Davids, Theron and Maphunye,
2011:121). The primary role-players in public decision-making should be the people
themselves, as governments exist to serve the people.
ASSIGNMENT 2
DUE DATE: AUGUST 2026
, The Application of the Typology of Participation in the Masakhane Informal
Settlement Upgrading Project
1. INTRODUCTION
Public participation is an important part of democracy, especially in South Africa, where
the Constitution requires citizens to be involved in decisions that affect their lives
(Republic of South Africa, 1996). The Masakhane Informal Settlement in Ekurhuleni
faces problems such as poor housing, lack of clean water and sanitation,
unemployment, and poor roads. To address these problems, the municipality plans to
improve basic services, build roads and community facilities, and provide subsidised
houses.
The success of this project depends on meaningful public participation. The Typology of
Participation shows five levels of community involvement: Passive Participation,
Participation by Consultation, Functional Participation, Interactive Participation, and
Self-mobilisation. These levels range from limited involvement to residents taking an
active role in making decisions and leading development.
2. UNDERSTANDING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Public participation is defined as the voluntary involvement of people in making and
implementing decisions that directly affect their lives (United Nations Centre for Human
Settlements, 1991). In a democratic country such as South Africa, citizens have the
right to participate in activities that affect their future (Davids, Theron and Maphunye,
2011:121). The primary role-players in public decision-making should be the people
themselves, as governments exist to serve the people.
