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The PCA analysis revealed three distinct components of innovation in the informal construction sector in Sweetwaters, KwaZulu-Natal. The components reflect Knowledge, Linkages & Training, Formal Learning & Development, and Technical Infrastructure.
The strongest interactions patterns within the informal con- struction sector in the study area occurs between business owners and customers, reflecting the demand-driven nature of the sector. A moderate level of interaction exists between informal businesses and suppliers of building materials indi- cating a reliance on external inputs. Interactions with com- petitors and other local businesses are relatively weak, sug- gesting limited collaboration and knowledge sharing. Access to formal financing sources like banks and other venture cap- ital is limited, highlighting a reliance on informal financing. Interactions with training organisations and intermediaries are virtually non-existent, suggesting a lack of formal sup- port and knowledge acquisition. The weak interaction with training organisations and intermediaries suggests a silo mentality among informal business owners. The lack of in- teraction with competitors and local businesses may hinder knowledge exchange and innovation. Reliance on informal sources of finance and limited access to informal institutions underscores the challenges faced by informal construction businesses. Potential areas for intervention could be on promoting access to training and skills development pro- grammes. Fostering stronger connections between informal businesses and support organisations.
Theoretically, operationalising innovation within the informal construction sector was a challenge. A deeper exploration of broader economic, social and political factors influencing innovation is needed.
In conclusion, the study shows that the informal construc- tion sector in Sweetwaters faces a skills gap and many builders rely on informal learning such as self tauhgt. The analysis on the nature of innovation highlights the impor- tance of the adoption of new technologies and equipment, seeking out new ideas and making discoveries, as well as training and knowledge acquisition. While various chal- lenges exist, most do not significantly hinder innovation. Economic and environmental factors, though present, have limited impact. Strong interactions between informal construction businesses and customers highlight the de- mand-driven nature of the sector. Weaker interactions with suppliers, competitors, and support organisations indicate limited collaboration and knowledge sharing. Stimulating linkages with formal education and training organisations, such as colleges and NGOs offering training, and clusters is one area for government intervention. Lack of access to formal financing underscores the sectors challenges. The informal construction sector in Sweetwaters demonstrates resilience and adaptability despite facing numerous chal-
lenges. Based on the findings of this study, several areas warrant further investigation to enhance our understand- ing of innovation in the informal construction sector, in- cluding targeted training programmes where specialised training programmes can be developed to address specific skill gaps identified in the sector and establishing plat- forms for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innova- tion among informal builders. One such platform is the informal business chamber in the province. There is a need to link the businesses with such platforms.
Theoretically, operationalising innovation within the informal construction sector was a challenge. A deeper exploration of broader economic, social and political factors influencing innovation is needed. The study highlights areas for future research to better understand the nature of innovation and learning in the informal construction sector and the informal sector more broadly.
Supplementary materials: The manuscript does not come with supplementary materials.
Statement on data availability: The larger dataset will be curated and shared via the organisational repository in 12 months.
funding: The research was funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), South Africa. The ideas, opinions, conclusions and policy recommendations expressed in this paper are strictly those of the authors, and do not necessarily represent, and should not be presented as the views of the DSTI.
declaration of interest: No conflict of interest.
authors’ contributions: Setsoheng Mayeki: Original draft preparation and revision, paper conceptualisation, litera- ture review, data analysis. Mbongeni Maziya: Original draft preparation and revision, paper conceptualisation, data analysis. Il-haam Petersen: Paper conceptualisation, data preparation and analysis, data collection, writing reviewing and editing, project and case study conceptualisation and methodology. Nazeem Mustapha: Data preparation and analysis, data collection, writing – reviewing and editing, project and case study conceptualisation and methodology.
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Akintayo, W.L. and Idowu, S.A. 2022. Innovative utilization of upcycled waste materials in the construction of useful and attractive household articles. Africa Environmental Review Journal, 5 (1), pp. 233-245.
Akunyumu, S., Fugar, F.D., Adinyira, E. and Danku, J.C. 2021. A review of models for assessing readiness of construction organisations to innovate. Construction Innovation, 21 (2), pp. 279-299.
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