Media Partner Residential

Reside Summit launches NPO, the SA Home and Residential Alliance (SAHARA)

Cllr Xolani Sotashe.

The Residential Investment and Development Summit (Reside) has announced the launch of the Southern African Home and Residential Alliance (SAHARA) at the recent South African Local Government Association (SALGA) Local Government Showcase Conference in Sandton.  

SAHARA is a collaborative not-for-profit organisation (NPO) umbrella body of member organisations that aims to amplify the collective industry impact by lobbying government and contributing to policy development as well as consolidating stakeholder resources and networks across the residential property sector. Members include organisations and institutions with interests in multi-family housing, student accommodation, retirement villages, social housing and affordable housing, as well as other support member industries.  

“SAHARA has been established in response to industry demand   to consolidate the impact of existing stakeholder bodies, by complementing and supporting their organisational efforts. Each of the member organisations bring unique strengths and perspectives to the table. By uniting under the SAHARA umbrella, we can harness these strengths and work together towards our shared objectives,” comments Residential Investment & Development Summit (Reside) Chair and SAHARA CEO, Debbie Tagg.

Speaking at the 2nd Annual Residential Investment & Development Summit taking place between the 16th and the 19th of July 2024, Tagg said the residential sector is the cornerstone of any society as it provides shelter, security and a sense of belonging. 

The residential sector faces many challenges including affordability, rapid urbanisation, sustainability, demand and changing demographics. To address these challenges requires concerted, collaborative efforts.

“SAHARA aims to weave together the threads of our individual member organisations to create a stronger, more vibrant residential sector for Southern Africa,” said Tagg. 

Cllr Xolani Sotashe, Chairperson of Human Settlements & Urban Agenda National Working Group at the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) said South Africa the has highest rates of urbanisation, at about 63% among emerging economies globally.  It also has a very high housing backlog, with approximately 3 309 informal settlements and increasing illegal land occupation. 

“Government cannot address the housing challenge alone – hence we value partnerships between the public and private sector.  As SALGA, we had already started venturing into bringing the two sectors together in the human settlements space, in particular residential property development aimed at collaborating to address challenges in the housing sector

“Our key area of focus in the delivery of housing is the lower end of the market through subsidised housing in affordable rental housing,” said Sotashe. 

Speaking on the 16th of July during the Reside Conference and SALGA Investment Showcase, Sotashe emphasised the importance of partnerships between the public sector and private sector entities, such as SAHARA, to address challenges in the residential property sector.

The benefits of joining SAHARA include:

Collaborative networking: Engage with a diverse network of professionals and organisations across the residential sector. Share insights, challenges, and solutions in a collaborative environment. 

Resource sharing: Access a central repository of resources, including research, policy guidelines, and best practices, to enhance operations and decision-making. 

Advocacy and representation: Benefit from a unified voice in policy discussions and advocacy efforts. 

Innovation and research: Participate in joint research initiatives and innovation projects aimed at addressing the pressing issues facing the sector such as affordability and sustainability. 

Professional development: Gain access to training programs, workshops, and seminars designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of your team members. 

Conference organisation: Benefit from coordinated conference planning and execution, allowing for impactful events that bring together key stakeholders. 

Coordinated efforts: Enjoy streamlined coordination among different organisations, facilitating joint projects and initiatives that have a greater collective impact. 

Funding opportunities: Access information on grants, funding sources, and financial support available for residential projects and initiatives. 

Market insights: Receive regular updates and reports on market trends, demographic changes, and economic factors affecting the residential sector. 

Sustainability initiatives: Participate in sustainability programs aimed at promoting environmentally friendly practices within the residential sector. 

Policy development: Contribute to the development of policies that support the growth and stability of the residential market. 

Strategic partnerships: Form strategic partnerships with other member organisations to leverage combined expertise and resources. 

Community engagement: Engage with local communities to ensure that housing developments meet the needs and preferences of residents. 

Technology integration: Access the latest technological advancements and digital tools that can enhance operational efficiency and resident satisfaction. 

Crisis management: Benefit from shared resources and strategies for managing crisis, such as natural disasters or economic downturns, that impact the residential sector. 

Marketing and promotion: Gain support in marketing and promoting residential projects, helping to attract investors and residents. 

Regulatory compliance: Stay informed about regulatory changes and compliance requirements, ensuring that your operations meet legal standards. 

Quality standards: Implement and uphold high-quality standards across residential projects, fostering trust and satisfaction among residents. 

Health and safety: Access guidelines and best practices for maintaining health and safety standards in residential developments. 

Cultural exchange: Promote cultural exchange and understanding among residents, fostering inclusive and harmonious communities. 

“SAHARA is committed to transparency, inclusivity and mutual support. We believe in the power of collaboration and the strength of unity. By working together as member organisations, we can create a future where every resident in Southern Africa has access to safe, affordable and sustainable housing,” added Tagg.