Abstract:
The main objective of this article is to describe a problem portrayed into critical human
conditions in urban margins characterised by the deprivation of most basic human needs,
housing in particular. This is undertaken in search of alternative ways that promote a bigger
plan of urban regeneration while exploring whether faith-based action makes a special
contribution to this goal, both sustainably and innovatively. The article uses a case study of
faith-based action from the City of Tshwane in Gauteng province, South Africa. It first begins
with constructing an untoward paradoxical narrative of urban marginalisation and housing
crisis scenario. It proceeds, responding to marginalisation in light of values of spatial justice
and housing. This insight leads the article to sketch a paradigmatic point of departure
addressing urban margins, looking at the sustainable livelihoods framework and its basic
tenets that mobilise livelihood assets (tangible and intangible) to tackle urban marginalisation
from its roots. The article moves on to explore a contribution of faith-based action in urban
regeneration through housing value. The penultimate point of the article engages the case
study followed by drawing the general conclusion and way forward. The article adds to the
existing literature, employing an epistemological approach that integrates multidisciplinary
sources and empirical reports on urban marginalisation. Unstructured interviews,
participatory observations and personal experience on housing practice help to achieve the
main objective of the study.
Description:
This research is part of the Special Collection, ‘Faith-based
and urban regeneration’, and Ezekiel Ntakirutimana is
participating in the research project, ‘Faith in the City’,
directed by Dr Stephan de Beer, member of the Department
of Practical Theology, Faculty of Theology and Religion and
the director of the Centre for Contextual Ministry, Faculty of
Theology and Religion, University of Pretoria, South Africa.
