Malpractices in Government-Sponsored Housing Projects and Their Impact on Affordability: The Cases of Bole Arabsa and Koye Feche Project Sites In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Date
2024-06-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Despite government efforts, condominium housing prices in Addis Ababa remain out of reach for a significant portion of the population. Concerns are mounting that malpractices are exacerbating this affordability problem. To investigate this, the study examines the prevalence of malpractices in government-sponsored housing projects and how they impact housing affordability, focusing on the Bole Arabsa and Koye Feche project sites. By employing a case study-mixed methods design, the researcher utilized primary and secondary data sources. A stratified random sampling technique ensured a representative sample of 251 respondents. To gather and generate both qualitative and quantitative data, in-depth interviews, surveys, focus group discussions, observations, and document reviews were employed. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive, thematic, and ratio analysis techniques before being presented in tables, charts, diagrams, and narrative text formats. The study findings revealed the participation of unskilled and inexperienced stakeholders throughout the process, the use of substandard materials, delayed deliveries of materials, and late payments. Consequently, construction was extended, quality suffered, and prices rose. Ratio analysis confirmed these issues, with an average Schedule Performance Index (SPI) of 0.27 and a Cost Performance Index (CPI) of 0.47, indicating significant delays and cost overruns. In conclusion, this study reveals how pervasive malpractices during housing production disproportionately impact low-income groups seeking affordable housing by creating a significant barrier, leading to inflated costs and hindering their ability to secure safe and stable living. Finally, to ensure the delivery of affordable housing and eliminate the root causes of project delays, quality issues, price hikes, and affordability concerns, this research recommends a multi-pronged approach such as merit-based stakeholder selection, enhanced quality control measures, improved supply chain management, streamlined payment processes, and fostering stakeholder commitment.
Keywords: Malpractices in housing construction, Government-sponsored Housing, housing Affordability, Addis Ababa