Chairperson of Abahlali baseMjondolo, Mr Sbu Zikode, addressed some of the issues facing those living in informal seetlements and the challenges encountered when working with NGOs and local government.

The address was well attended by a broad range of interested people, notably those from church land departments within some denominations or local churches. Mr Zikode urged people to rethink ways in which they can assist communities in their struggles by asking the question "how can I support you?", rather than "how can I help?" This would enable people to accept that people do not necessarily want to change the spaces they fill, but rather be enabled to fill those spaces better. The rights to electricity and water are the same for a shack dweller as they are for someone living in an upmarket residential area - the type of housing should not determine the service delivered.

The fill text of Sbu Zikode's address can be downloaded: click here