Strategy Sindh Katchi-Abadis Authority

In 1991, Siddiqui founded two organizations to continue the work of scaling and perfecting his methodology: the Sindh Katchi-Abadis Authority (SKAA), a quasi-governmental agency, and SAIBAN, a non-profit organization. SKAA was the “bridge” needed between Saiban and

governmental authorities, making the approach sustainable. Saiban initiated and lobbied for the replication of this incremental housing scheme in other parts of the country.
Saiban ensures that housing is offered to the poor at affordable rates and flexible payment schedules. Plots with minimal services are sold to poor families for a down payment. Subsequent payments are to be made over the next 6-8 years and are used to gradually develop remaining infrastructure. The application process is handled on-site and possession of the plot is given as soon as the down payment is made. The candidate’s family is required to move into a reception site for about two weeks. This practice filters out real-estate speculators and middle-income groups and allows the family to have a place to stay while construction begins. A family must start constructing a house as soon as it receives plot possession. Families must comply with these requirements to avoid the risk of having the allotment cancelled and the down payment forfeited. The house a family initially constructs can be a shack. The advantage to the residing family – in addition to affordable housing – is the security of tenure. The plots are legally sanctioned and families have no fear of eviction.
By partnering with other non-profit social organizations, Saiban facilitates key social and economic services to the residents of the housing community, including education, health-care and credit facilities.