STUDENT DETAILS
NAMES : SUPRISE MADIMETJA
SURNAME : LEDWABA
STUDENT NUMBER : 64768139
MODEL CODE : GGH3704
ASSIGNMENT NO : 02
SEMESTER : 01
SUBMISSION DATE : 29 march 2023
DECLARATION
Name: Suprise Ledwaba
Student number: 64768139
I declare that this assignment is my original work, where secondary material has been used
(either from a printed source or from the internet). This has been carefully acknowledged and
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,referenced in accordance with departmental requirements. I understand what plagiarism is and I
am aware of the departmental requirements policy, in this regard I have not allowed anyone
else to borrow or copy my work.
Signature: SM Ledwaba
Critically discuss the factors that affect the residential settlement pattern with
referred to the example in South Africa.
The settlement pattern of residents is influenced by several factors. The factors range
from geographic location, cultural practices, economic opportunities, security concerns,
and government regulations.
Geographic location is an essential factor in determining the settlement pattern of
residents. For instance, topography, climate, and soil fertility greatly influence the
settlement pattern of residents. The majority of people would prefer settling in areas that
are easily accessible and have fertile soil for farming. Regions with harsh terrains and
poor soil fertility are likely to have low population densities. Coastal regions prone to
natural disasters, such as floods and tsunamis, are likely to have low settlement
patterns due to the risk of destruction and loss of life.
Culture also influences the settlement patterns of residents. For instance, some cultures
prefer living in communities with people who share similar traditions, customs, and
values. Homeowners who adhere to such cultures usually have strong communal bonds
and are likely to settle near each other. In contrast, some cultures do not emphasize
communal living and give priority to individual independence. Consequently, residents
who adhere to these cultural practices are more likely to settle far from each other.
Economic opportunities are also a significant factor in determining settlement patterns.
Cities and towns with a stable economy, such as thriving businesses and industries, are
likely to attract more residents compared to those in places with limited economic
opportunities. For instance, residents are likely to settle near industrial areas, mines,
and transportation hubs that offer employment opportunities. Moreover, residents who
operate businesses, such as trading or retail shops, are likely to gravitate towards areas
with high foot traffic.
HOW DOES ECONOMIC FACTOR AFFEC THE RESIDENTIAL SETTLEMENT
PATTERN
Security concerns also influence settlement patterns. Residents are likely to settle in
areas where they feel safe and secure. For instance, residents are likely to avoid
regions prone to unrest, crime, and natural disasters. Security concerns influence the
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,choice of location for settlement, and as such, even regions with ample economic
opportunities may be unattractive to residents if they have high insecurity levels.
When it comes to residential settlement patterns, economic factors play a crucial role in
determining where people live and what type of housing they can afford. Economic
developments and policies can shape the availability of housing, the attractiveness of
regions and the affordability of living costs within a given area. As such, different
economic factors impact housing patterns in both urban and rural settings.
One of the most important economic factors that affect residential settlement patterns is
income. Areas with higher median household incomes and stronger job markets
typically attract more residents since they are better able to afford housing there. For
instance, New York City and San Francisco have some of the highest housing costs in
the United States, but they also tend to draw people due to the extensive job
opportunities that can pay well. Higher-income regions also tend to offer a wider variety
of housing types, from condos and apartments to detached homes, which appeals to
different demographic group
Another important economic factor is job availability. Many individuals move to different
residential areas in search of better job opportunities. Since rural areas often have
fewer jobs, people can either move to cities to find work or stay in more rural areas and
create their own businesses or work remotely. Urban areas tend to have a higher
concentration of jobs in industries such as finance, technology, and healthcare, which
attract certain types of residents who are seeking employment in these fields.
Another critical factor that affects residential settlement patterns is the supply and
demand for housing. If an area experiences population growth, it can lead to housing
shortages and rising prices. Conversely, if a region has a lot of housing, it may
experience lower housing costs, which can help attract different types of residents. The
government also plays a role in residential settlement patterns, as policies and
programs like low-income housing tax credits or subsidies for development in low-
income areas, can encourage economic activity and help increase housing supply.
Lastly, the state of the economy plays an essential role in residential settlement
patterns. During a period of economic recession, people may be less likely to move to
new areas, or they may choose to move to more low-cost areas for better job security.
The economic downturns also tend to increase poverty levels and leads to reduced
homeownership rates. In contrast, during a period of economic growth and prosperity,
people may be more likely to move to new areas, and the demand for housing may
increase, leading to higher housing costs.
Finally, government regulations and policies play a significant role in shaping settlement
patterns. Governments may offer incentives for certain cities or towns to promote
development and growth. These incentives range from tax breaks, subsidies, and
access to financial assistance. Moreover, zoning regulations and land use policies
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, determine the kind of development allowed in specific regions, such as residential,
commercial, or industrial.
HOW DOES INFORMAL FACTORS AFFECT THE RESIDENTIAL SETTLEMENT
PATTERN
The informal areas, also known as slums, shanty towns, or squatter settlements, have
become a pervasive urban feature in South Africa, affecting the settlement patterns in
the country. Informal areas are characterized by a lack of adequate housing, sanitation,
and access to basic services, which poses severe challenges for the residents and the
government.
Informal areas have contributed to the rising urban population densities in South Africa,
causing the spread of settlements into peri-urban and rural areas, leading to
uncontrolled sprawl. The influx of people into urban areas without sufficient planning
has resulted in the formation of ad-hoc housing settlements, such as shacks and
backyard dwellings, which are typically built on land designated for other purposes. The
informal areas are often situated in peri-urban areas as they offer cheap
accommodation options, proximity to employment opportunities, and urban amenities.
The effect of informal areas on settlement patterns is visible in South Africa's urban
areas. Informal areas are typically located on the outskirts of the city, with low-income
communities often residing in these areas. This clustering of low-income groups in
informal settlements has led to the marginalization and social exclusion of these groups
from the mainstream urban life. The distance from city centers and high-income
neighborhoods has also contributed to the deterioration of the conditions of the informal
areas, with inadequate service delivery, sanitation, and security systems.
Informal settlements affect the social and economic patterns of urban centers in South
Africa. Due to the lack of basic amenities, informal areas have become hotspots for
widespread poverty, high levels of unemployment, and crime rates. Residents in
informal settlements are also exposed to health hazards, such as air pollution and
water-borne diseases, due to a lack of running water, proper sanitation, and waste
management. The social and economic repercussions of informal settlements have
impacted the urban landscape, leading to a shift in the perception of the city as a vibrant
center of innovation to a city characterized by social inequality and poverty.
In conclusion, several factors influence the settlement pattern of residents. Geographic
location, culture, economic opportunities, security concerns, and government
regulations are among the factors that play critical roles in shaping settlement patterns.
Understanding these factors is essential in ensuring efficient development and growth.
Governments, policymakers, and other stakeholders in the development sector should
consider these factors in urban and regional planning and formulate policies that
promote growth while ensuring the safety and prosperity of the residents.
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