South Africa’s Department of Human Settlements has announced a new initiative to promote multi-generational living as part of a broader housing reform strategy. The move, part of a national effort to address chronic housing shortages, has sparked mixed reactions among families and housing experts. The policy, which encourages older adults to live with their children and grandchildren, aims to reduce the financial burden on individuals and improve social cohesion. The initiative is being piloted in Gauteng, the country’s most populous province, where over 15 million people live in overcrowded and under-resourced homes.
What is Multi and Why It Matters
The term "Multi" refers to the government’s new housing model that integrates multiple generations under one roof. It is designed to address the rising costs of housing and the growing number of elderly citizens who live alone. According to the South African National Census, over 12% of the population is over 60, and many of them live in poverty. The initiative, launched in January 2025, is part of a broader plan to build 1.5 million affordable homes by 2030.
Minister of Human Settlements, Lindiwe Sisulu, said the policy is a “necessary shift in how we think about housing.” She added that the government is working with local municipalities to provide subsidies for families who adopt the Multi model. “We want to ensure that no one is left behind,” she said in a recent speech. However, critics argue that the policy may not account for the unique needs of different households.
Impact on Daily Life and the Local Economy
The shift to multi-generational living has already started to affect daily life for many South Africans. In Soweto, a densely populated township in Johannesburg, families are being encouraged to restructure their living spaces to accommodate extended relatives. This has led to increased pressure on already limited housing stock. According to a survey by the South African Housing Development Agency, 40% of respondents reported that their homes were too small for multi-generational living.
Local businesses, particularly in the construction and home improvement sectors, have seen a rise in demand. However, the cost of renovations and new housing remains a barrier for many. “It’s not just about having space—it’s about having the money to make it work,” said Thandiwe Mokoena, a community leader in Hillbrow. “Not everyone can afford to build a new room or hire workers.”
Community Response and Social Challenges
Community responses to the initiative have been divided. In some areas, residents have embraced the idea, citing stronger family bonds and shared responsibilities. In others, there are concerns about privacy and generational conflicts. In Durban, a pilot project saw mixed results, with some families reporting improved support systems and others facing tension and overcrowding.
Non-governmental organisations have also weighed in. The South African Family Support Network, a local advocacy group, has called for more education and resources to help families adapt. “We need to make sure that this isn’t just a policy on paper,” said Luvuyo Dlamini, the group’s director. “It has to be supported with real, practical solutions.”
Challenges in Implementation
The government’s ability to implement the Multi model effectively depends on several factors, including funding, infrastructure, and community engagement. A recent report by the Development Bank of Southern Africa highlighted that only 30% of the targeted housing units were completed by mid-2025. This has raised concerns about whether the initiative will meet its goals.
Additionally, there are logistical hurdles. In many rural areas, access to basic services like water and electricity is limited, making multi-generational living even more challenging. The government has pledged to improve infrastructure in these regions, but progress has been slow. “We need more than just housing—we need a complete support system,” said Mpho Khumalo, a local councilor in Limpopo.
What to Watch Next
The next few months will be critical for the success of the Multi initiative. The government plans to roll out the program to additional provinces by the end of 2025, with a focus on areas with the highest housing demand. A key milestone will be the release of a new housing affordability index, which is expected to be published in September 2025. This will provide a clearer picture of how the policy is impacting families across the country.
For now, many South Africans are watching closely, hoping that the new approach will bring real change. “We need solutions that work for us, not just for the government,” said Noma Dlamini, a resident of East London. “Let’s see if this is the start of something meaningful.”
