Investigating the use of alternative building technologies for affordable housing delivery ln Namibia
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2021
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
The huge housing backlog estimated by several studies conducted in Namibia
to be over 100,000 units in 2016 and still growing 1s a manifestation of inadequate
delivery of affordable housing. This study is inspired by this dire reality perpetuated
by the low productivity of affordable housing projects that make use of conventional
methods of construction. This study investigates the use of Alternative Building
Technology (ABTs) as a potential solution to this problem. In pursuit of that, a
convergent independent mixed methods research design was adopted where data was
collected in parallel, analysed separately, and then merged at the discussion and
reporting stages. The theoretical framework for the study included concepts and
principles from economics, project management, psychology and lean construction.
ABTs have qualities such as reduced waste in construction time, labour, and materials
which make them more productive than conventional methods. Unavailability of
serviced land, limited funding, conservative regulations, and poor project management
are significant factors undermining the delivery of affordable housing in Namibia.
Currently, use of ABTs in Namibia is very minimal but success has been observed
elsewhere in Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, and Uganda. The study is useful to
policymakers recommending reforms to the delivery of affordable housing as well as
property developers interested in this market segment
Description
A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Business Administration Finance
Keywords
Namibia, Housing backlog, Building technologies, Affordable housing delivery, University of Namibia