African Cities In Crisis: Managing Rapid Urban Growth

This book explores how governments respond to the gap between official plans and the realities of the urban poor in African cities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 29 July 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book presents the compelling findings of the African Urban Management project, an extensive endeavor aimed at examining the diverse governmental responses to the widening chasm between official plans and perspectives and the burgeoning realities faced by the urban poor in African cities. Through a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach, the project sought to unravel the complex dynamics that shape urban development in Africa, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities that arise in this rapidly evolving landscape.

The African Urban Management project embarked on a rigorous research journey, encompassing a wide range of methodologies and sources of information. It involved extensive fieldwork, interviews, surveys, and policy analysis, allowing for a deep understanding of the complex interplay between government institutions, urban communities, and the broader socio-economic context. The project's findings are presented in a clear and accessible manner, making it an invaluable resource for policymakers, urban planners, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of urban growth and poverty in Africa.

One of the key findings of the project is the recognition of the urgent need for a more holistic and integrated approach to urban management. Traditional top-down planning models, which often prioritize economic growth and infrastructure development, have often failed to address the specific needs and challenges of the urban poor. The project emphasizes the importance of incorporating the voices and perspectives of marginalized communities into urban planning processes, ensuring that their needs and rights are considered and accommodated.

Another significant aspect of the project's findings is the recognition of the role that informal settlements and urban slums play in shaping African cities. These communities, often characterized by poor infrastructure, limited access to basic services, and high levels of poverty, face significant barriers to social and economic development. The project advocates for the formalization and legalization of informal settlements, as well as the provision of adequate housing, infrastructure, and social services to these communities.

Furthermore, the project highlights the importance of promoting sustainable urban development practices in African cities. It emphasizes the need to balance economic growth, environmental conservation, and social well-being, recognizing that unsustainable practices can lead to long-term social and economic consequences. The project suggests the adoption of green infrastructure, renewable energy sources, and sustainable transportation systems as key strategies for promoting sustainable urban development.

In conclusion, the African Urban Management project offers a valuable contribution to the understanding of urban development in Africa. Its findings highlight the urgent need for a more inclusive and sustainable approach to urban management, emphasizing the importance of incorporating the voices and perspectives of marginalized communities and promoting sustainable practices. The project's insights and recommendations provide a roadmap for policymakers, urban planners, and community leaders to address the challenges and opportunities facing African cities and create more equitable and prosperous urban environments.

Weight: 650g
ISBN-13: 9780367168230