This study investigates the profile, dynamics and dimensions ofenvironm ental problems at Old Naledi, a
low income urban neighbourhood in Gaborone, the capital city ofBotsw ana. It is based on documentary
and field research.
The field research has a participatory component involving meetings, discussions and open- ended
interviews with the interested and affected persons. It also involves the administration of a structured
survey questionnaire to 171 resident respondents. The main findings ofthe study are that residents have
made great efforts in improving the availability of the housing stock. However, in the process they have
failed to abide by the stipulated Development Control code and Urban Development Standards. This
essentially reflects the increasing non-affordability of land and costs of construction materials to urban low
income groups due to evolving state policy in the provisioning ofshelt er. The direct result has been a
congested, overcrowded settlement. Because ofthis , and a rapidly increasing population, there has been
underservicing and the emergence oflif e-threatening home and neighbourhood environmental problems.