The Eastern Cape is to benefit from 17 000-unit housing project in King Sabata Dalindyebo, Mthatha, as the institution looks to establishing sustainable communities. In an effort to redefine its role as a development funding institution the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) is helping establish sustainable communities. This would motivate "an active and involved population to work together to establish a successful future for themselves and subsequent generations".

The DBSA said it had recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the national housing department. "Housing is undoubtedly a significant component of sustainability which includes addressing... low income housing and convenient location close to work." In the Western Cape, the DBSA had been able to participate in the establishment of policies in the development of the Rooidakke area. "Here, government is using alternative construction technology, mainly attributable to DBSA putting forward a strong case to move away from ordinary construction material unsuited to the high levels of humidity of the area."

Before the bank embarked on any community project, it drew up a development charter specific to that project to protect its investment. For example, it would agree to fund a housing development that included providing water and sanitation, electricity and storm water infrastructure. When construction is complete the charter assists in determining who should occupy the houses. It also helps protect the homes and infrastructure from vandalism because the community has signed up as a party to that specific charter," the DBSA said.

Besides the Rooidakke area, success had been seen in the 17 000-unit housing project in King Sabata Dalindyebo, Mthatha, in the Eastern Cape. Here the DBSA ensured sufficient planners and engineers were made available and defined economic development strategies. The bank said it had allocated R15-billion for housing over the next four years.