Introduction from the Editor - Vol. 3 No. 3

Citation

Reed, P.R. (2010), "Introduction from the Editor - Vol. 3 No. 3", International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis, Vol. 3 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/ijhma.2010.35103caa.001

Introduction from the Editor - Vol. 3 No. 3

Article Type: Editorial From: International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis, Volume 3, Issue 3.

This special issue focuses on a very important housing market which arguably receives relatively little exposure in the broader research discipline. Africa is a continent which has a unique set of circumstances, although much can be learnt from the progress and development being made. The International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis is very proud to present this issue of papers on housing markets which covers four African countries, namely South Africa, Nigeria, Tanzania and Ghana. Each paper provides its own individual contribution to advancing knowledge; collectively they give an insight into countries and submarkets which have their own challenges and enormous potential for change and growth.

The first three papers are from three different South African countries and were presented at the AfRES (African Real Estate Society) conference held in Lagos in October 2009. The first paper, by Kyessi and Furaha, was awarded the “International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis Best Paper Award” at this conference. The topic is focussed on housing finance in Tanzania with reference to low-income households. The next paper examines the housing market in Johannesburg (South Africa) with particular attention on housing developments. The third paper from the AfRES conference analyses residential housing indices in Ghana.

The final three papers were not presented at the AfRES conference but were selected due to their contribution to the special issue on Africa. The fourth paper returns to South Africa and analyses the circumstances surrounding the Gauteng Province with reference to informal settlements. The final two papers focus on Nigeria. The fifth paper then refers to the housing market and considers housing finance through co-operative societies. The final paper looks at urban poverty in Minna, Nigeria including implications for housing and residents.

It is hoped that this special issue will raise the profile of the increasing amount of quality research undertaken in South Africa and the rare challenges presented. Thank you to authors and reviewers for ensuring this journal continues to publish insightful research. I encourage your feedback (richard.reed@deakin.edu.au) and comment on any aspects of this journal. As global housing markets continue to diversify to meet changing times, research should continue so that housing can retain its high profile in the broader economy.

Professor Richard Reed