Understanding the state of racial integration | State of Gauteng City Region

We recognise that, given the limitations of statistical data and empirical research on residential segregation in Gauteng, this map can only offer broad brushstrokes toward a clear picture of a society in transition. However, it is possible to use the map to discern some interesting trends regarding racial integration.

Perhaps the most visible manifestation of change can be seen through some deracialisation of a number of historically white suburbs in Gauteng, suggesting the influx of a growing Black middle class. There is a small but significant degree of racial mixing in the northern suburbs of the City of Johannesburg, from the Midrand area to the upmarket Sandton suburb, as well as certain suburbs close to or surrounding Pretoria (e.g. Centurion or Randjiesfontein). Some degree of racial mixing can also be seen in inner city Johannesburg. Similarly former townships designated for the Black, Indian and Coloured population such as Soweto, Lenasia and Eldorado Park show equal evidence of some racial integration.

It may be cautiously said that this trend toward racial integration in Gauteng’s former Black, Coloured and Indian townships could suggest a possible rewriting of the complex spatial history of townships in the province.

By contrast, the map also shows great swathes of racial exclusivity in some white suburbs as well as certain areas of southern Johannesburg with mainly Coloured and Black residents. Although there is slow movement toward racial integration, this map generally represents a confirmation of the continued salience of the racial fault-line in the spatial and physical landscape of Gauteng.

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This map of Gauteng showing residential settlement by racial group using 2011 Census data reflects some fascinating trends in terms of current race-related spatial realities of the province.

The map makes it clear that the spatial effects of apartheid may be with South Africa for many generations to come. Various factors reinforce the spatial divisions of racial groups inherited from apartheid. These include policy choices such as where to locate RDP settlements, and personal preferences and cultural attitudes that shape residential choice. Personal preferences, social networks, and cultural attitudes (‘social psychological residential preference’) also play an important role in determining residential choice.

Planning decisions will have to take such complex factors into account when determining the kind of spaces for future Gauteng residents to live in. Key to this planning are decisions over infrastructure that supports integrated and socially cohesive communities such as libraries, recreational centres, clinics, places of worship, etc., as well as interconnections with other important forms of infrastructure such as an affordable and accessible transport system.

The NDP states that: “To make it easier for South Africans to interact with each other across class and race divides, the country needs to improve public spaces and public services” (National Development Plan 2012: 456). This point is echoed in the Gauteng 2055 (G2055) programme of long term change for the province.