AN INVESTIGATION ON THE SLOW DEVELOPMENT OF SETTLEMENT AREAS: A CASE STUDY OF UUKWANGULA AND EHEKE IN OSHANA REGION

Abstract

This study was prompted by the need to identify the elements causing the slow development of the Uukwangula and Eheke settlement areas, the consequences of the slow development, and solutions to accelerate development in the two settlement areas. The primary goal of the study is to explore the slow development witnessed in the two settlement areas of Uukwangula and Eheke in the Oshana region, as well as the negative impacts on citizens and the economy. To meet the study's objectives, the researchers used a qualitative research approach and recruited sixteen (16) research participants from the target group. This group included four (4) Oshana regional office officials and twelve (12) residents from the two (2) settlement zones of Eheke and Uukwangula Settlements.

According to the study findings, the primary causes of delayed development are a lack of serviced land, infrastructure, and investment, as well as the challenges of inadequate housing, limited facilities, insufficient jobs, and a stagnant economy. Henceforth, a strategy approach that addresses the causes and leverages resources to foster sustainable and inclusive growth in the settlement area is recommended.