POPULATION GROWTH AND HOUSING DEMAND IN THE WA MUNICIPALITY

Abstract

Population growth and housing provision has lately gained global attention. With limited state and individual resources especially in developing countries, this calls for attention on how housing needs for the population are met. This study therefore focuses on the effects of population growth on housing demand in Wa. The study used a Mixed Study Design. The study employed multiple tools and techniques such as structured questionnaires and focused group interviews in collecting data. Some other data was obtained from secondary documentary sources. The sample size of the study was 100 respondents, constituting landlords and tenants. Analysis. of data involved descriptive statistics, techniques such as the use of frequencies, correlation and descriptions. The study found out that population of Wa since 1948 has been on the rise, but the period between 2000 and 2010 witnessed an astronomical increase in population due to factors such as the establishment of higher educational institutions; the improvement in infrastructure; positive net migration and natural increase and improved economic activities accounting for the growth. Furthermore, the study also found that housing demand in the Wa Municipality has been on the increase leading to it outstripping supply. Again, it was found that the rent before the establishment of higher educational institutions were lower, but rose sharply with their establishment and is estimated to continue to rise further in the future if the present trend continuous. In addition, the stakeholders in the housing sector have not been able to address the housing demand challenges. Finally, the study found out that alternative strategies to meeting the deficit housing supply include individual provision, private sector involvement and public private partnership. The study recommends that encouraging public-private partnership in housing provision, making of mortgage loans available, and enforcing rent control policies is right to make rent rates affordable.