Engaging with Informal Settlement Regularization: Policy and Process

Introduction

The issue of informal settlements and their regularization has long been a topic of both local and international concern. On December 24, 2025, a significant step was taken in the Bois Marchand area of Mauritius, where three families living on state-owned land at Singamanie saw their tenure formalized. This development, overseen by Minister of Lands and Housing, Shakeel Mohamed, highlights a broader policy initiative focused on humane and systematic resolution of land tenure issues. The move sparked public and media interest due to its implications for ongoing policies regarding informal settlements.

Background and Timeline

Informal settlements have been a persistent issue in many African countries, including Mauritius, where urban migration and economic constraints have led to the proliferation of these communities. The situation at Singamanie had been ongoing for over two decades, with families residing without formal agreements. In a bid to address these challenges, the government, under the Alliance du Changement, pledged to adopt a more humane approach towards these communities.

The decision to regularize began with a thorough review of existing cases, prioritizing those less complicated while committing to address more complex situations in due time. This policy shift was made public earlier in the year, with the minister emphasizing a balanced approach toward community welfare and legal frameworks. The recent issuance of lease agreements is the first tangible outcome of this policy direction.

What Is Established

• The government has begun formalizing land tenure for some informal settlements.
• Three families at Singamanie have received lease agreements as part of this initiative.
• The Minister of Lands and Housing, Shakeel Mohamed, is overseeing the project.
• The approach aims to balance humane treatment with legal compliance.

What Remains Contested

• The process for determining which cases are prioritized for regularization is not fully transparent.
• Community response varies, with some calling for faster, broader action.
• The long-term impacts on local governance structures and urban planning remain uncertain.

Institutional and Governance Dynamics

The regularization of informal settlements involves navigating complex institutional landscapes, including regulatory frameworks and local governance structures. The incentives are aligned toward achieving stability and social integration, yet are constrained by bureaucratic processes and resource limitations. Ensuring effective policy implementation requires balancing rapid action with careful planning to avoid unintended consequences or community pushback.

Stakeholder Positions

Minister Shakeel Mohamed has emphasized the government's commitment to a humane approach, drawing support from various community leaders who view this as a positive step towards improving living conditions. However, some advocacy groups continue to press for greater transparency and inclusivity in decision-making processes. The broader public views these efforts with cautious optimism, aware of the intricate balance between legal regularization and the socio-economic realities faced by informal settlers.

Regional Context

Regularization efforts in Mauritius reflect broader trends across Africa, where governments are increasingly addressing informal settlements through policies aimed at fostering inclusive growth and urban development. These initiatives often require collaboration between national and local authorities, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies to ensure that solutions are sustainable and equitable. The case of Singamanie offers insights into how countries can manage similar challenges within their unique socio-political landscapes.

Forward-Looking Analysis

The regularization at Singamanie could set a precedent for future policy interventions aimed at informal settlements across Mauritius. The ongoing commitment to addressing complex cases suggests a sustained focus on resolving land tenure issues. Moving forward, continuous evaluation of these efforts will be crucial to understanding their effectiveness and scalability. Moreover, integrating community feedback and fostering public-private partnerships could enhance the outcomes of such initiatives.