The purpose of the evaluation was to assess the implementation of four pilot projects (Zanemvula, NMB, EC; Cosmo City, COJ, GP; Pennyville, COJ, GP; and Olivenhoutbosch, COT, GP), to draw out lessons for the IRDP and determine how best to strengthen the programme to achieve the desired outcomes at scale.

The focus of the evaluation is on the programme design and its implementation.

The baseline assessment study for the future impact evaluation of informal settlements targeted for upgrading set out to collect data for use by the Department of Human Settlements (DHS) to address the following:

• Strengthen implementation and improve the performance of the UISP
• Determine the nature and sustainability of the UISP outcomes
• Determine measurable impacts on beneficiaries and communities in the UISP       

The key question that the baseline study posed was:

What is the current status of informal settlements targeted for upgrading?