About

BESG was established in 1983 by senior staff of the then University of Natal Department of Architecture and Allied Disciplines, as a support group that defended communities against eviction from informal settlements in urban areas, largely as a result of inter-political party violence. In the early 1990’s, BESG became a key player in shaping planning and housing policies from local to national level. Since 1995, BESG has been a leader in enabling poor communities to access land, basic services, housing and administrative justice.  

Mission

BESG supports vulnerable sectors of our society in accessing and developing land, basic services, shelter, and livelihood security through the provision of capacity building, social and technical support, and promoting citizen engagement with government.

Vision

A future in which all people in South Africa live in a participatory democracy with sustainable living environments and livelihood security