ABSTRACT
The persistence of Temporary Residential Units (TRUs) in South Africa challenges the state's commitment to spatial justice and the constitutional right to adequate housing. While TRUs are intended as short-term emergency shelters, they often become permanent settlements marked by poor living conditions. This research argues that the failure to transition communities out of TRUs reveals deeper governance dysfunctions across all spheres of government. The study critically assesses these governance failures. A systematic review of content analysis, including legislation, court cases, policy documents, and case studies, forms the basis of the analysis. Findings reveal weak planning integration, limited municipal capacity, non-compliance with legal mandates, and poor accountability. The study proposes a Governance-Responsive Framework centred on integrative planning, capacity building, and monitoring and accountability mechanisms. The framework offers a practical roadmap to resolve TRU entrenchment and realise housing rights in post-apartheid South Africa.
