Amakomiti: Grassroots Democracy in South African Shack Settlements

Shantytowns, shacks, and favelas can teach us about democracy and how to govern society inclusively and address popular needs. In a study in South Africa, amakomiti committees in shack settlements govern local life, provide essential services, and advocate for the recognition of slum dwellers' political agency.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 20 February 2021
Publisher: Pluto Press

Shantytowns, shacks, and favelas are often associated with poverty, inequality, and social exclusion. However, these communities can teach us valuable lessons about democracy and governance. In a study conducted in dozens of South Africa's shack settlements, where more than 9 million people live, Trevor Ngwane discovered thriving shack dwellers committees that govern local life, are responsive to popular needs, and provide a voice for the community. These committees, called amakomiti in the Zulu language, organize the provision of basic services such as water, sanitation, public works, and crime prevention, especially during settlement establishment.

Amakomiti argues that slum dwellers are an essential part of the urban population, whose political agency must be recognized and respected. In a world searching for democratic alternatives that serve the many and not the few, it is to the shantytowns, rather than the seats of political power, that we should turn.

One of the key insights from the study is that shack dwellers are not passive recipients of government services but active participants in the governance of their communities. These committees are often formed by residents themselves, and they play a crucial role in decision-making processes that affect their daily lives. For example, amakomiti have been successful in negotiating with local authorities to improve access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and electricity in shack settlements.

Moreover, shack dwellers committees are often more responsive to popular needs than traditional government institutions. They are more accessible to residents, and they can respond more quickly to emergencies and crises. This is particularly important in communities that are vulnerable to natural disasters, such as floods and earthquakes, which can leave residents without access to basic services.

Another important lesson from the study is that slum dwellers can be powerful agents of social change. Shack dwellers committees have been used to advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, such as women, children, and people with disabilities. They have also been involved in campaigns to improve housing conditions, access to education, and job opportunities.

Despite the challenges that shack dwellers face, such as poor infrastructure, limited access to resources, and social exclusion, they have demonstrated a remarkable resilience and creativity in adapting to their circumstances. They have created their own informal economies, such as small businesses and cooperatives, to generate income and improve their quality of life.

In conclusion, shantytowns, shacks, and favelas can teach us valuable lessons about democracy and governance. These communities demonstrate that democracy is not just about elections and political institutions but about the participation and empowerment of all members of society. Shack dwellers committees provide a model for how communities can govern themselves in a way that is inclusive, participatory, and addresses popular needs. By recognizing the political agency of slum dwellers and supporting their efforts to improve their communities, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.

Weight: 252g
Dimension: 135 x 216 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780745342009