Rapid Assessment of Squatting Report (NOTE: LARGE FILE)
Rapid Assessment of Squatting Report (NOTE: LARGE FILE)
Rapid Assessment of Squatting Report (NOTE: LARGE FILE)
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Squatter settlements are located close to natural resources with most <strong>of</strong> them sited in watershed<br />
areas. Regarding land capability, arable lands account for the greater number <strong>of</strong> settlements<br />
followed closely by marginal lands. Squatter settlements are vulnerable to the following<br />
common natural hazards: earthquakes, flooding, landslides and storm surges.<br />
Among several recommendations made, the report has given high priority to the identification <strong>of</strong><br />
funds to facilitate the speedy completion <strong>of</strong> a national policy on squatting. It recognizes the need<br />
for an urgent review <strong>of</strong> existing legal provisions relevant to squatting followed by the<br />
establishment <strong>of</strong> a legislative framework within which the wide range <strong>of</strong> associated issues can be<br />
addressed.<br />
Given the limitations <strong>of</strong> this study, the report recommends ongoing site specific assessment and<br />
analysis on squatter settlements, employing the use <strong>of</strong> Geographic Information Systems and<br />
related technologies. This information should be maintained in a national squatting geo database.<br />
It was recognized that firm and immediate steps must be taken to stem the proliferation <strong>of</strong><br />
squatting locally. As such, a strong recommendation made by the study is that a moratorium<br />
(approved by Cabinet) be placed on squatting preceded by a preparatory period <strong>of</strong> public<br />
education. This however should be supported by a strong enforcement mechanism and material<br />
resources to provide alternatives to squatting.<br />
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