Territorial Development and Water-Energy-Food Nexus in the Global South: A Study for the Maputo Province, Mozambique

This volume collects the results from the Politecnico di Milans award-winning "Boa_Ma_Nhã,Maputo!" research-by-design project, which studied various transdisciplinary approaches to development in the context of the Global South. It emphasizes the importance of addressing the needs of the specific population while keeping sustainability and inclusion in mind, and suggests that the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus should be kept in mind when formulating development strategies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 259 pages
Publication date: 19 September 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive volume presents the outcomes of the groundbreaking "Boa_Ma_Nhã,Maputo!" research-by-design project, which delved into diverse transdisciplinary approaches to development within the context of the Global South. While the challenges of urbanization are widely acknowledged, they alone cannot sufficiently facilitate their implementation. Territorial development requires comprehensive solutions that cater to the unique needs of the local population, while simultaneously addressing global concerns such as climate change and sustainable development. By examining a selection of towns within the Maputo Province of Mozambique, the research makes a compelling argument for prioritizing the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus when crafting development strategies aimed at enhancing the well-being of individuals. Furthermore, by integrating academic findings with the valuable insights gained from local NGOs and institutions, the project expands the potential idea bank beyond the Eurocentric norm that has historically dominated the field.

The research conducted in "Boa_Ma_Nhã,Maputo!" shed light on the complex dynamics of urbanization in the Global South. It emphasized the importance of considering local factors, such as water access and housing rights, while also addressing global challenges like climate change. By focusing on a specific region, the project provided valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by communities in Sub-Saharan Africa.

One of the key findings of the research was the significance of the WEF Nexus in shaping development strategies. The project highlighted the interdependence of water, energy, and food resources and how they contribute to sustainable development and human well-being. By integrating these three sectors into development planning, policymakers and practitioners can create more effective and sustainable solutions to address the needs of the population.

Another important aspect of the research was the importance of marrying academic findings with the insights accrued by local NGOs and institutions. By collaborating with these stakeholders, the project was able to gain a deeper understanding of the local context and tailor its solutions to meet the specific needs of the community. This approach not only enhanced the effectiveness of the research but also contributed to the sustainability and scalability of the solutions implemented.

The research conducted in "Boa_Ma_Nhã,Maputo!" has significant implications for the field of development studies and practice. It emphasizes the need for a holistic and transdisciplinary approach to development that takes into account the diverse needs and perspectives of local communities. By prioritizing the WEF Nexus and collaborating with local stakeholders, the project demonstrated the potential for creating sustainable and inclusive development solutions that can have a positive impact on people's lives.

In conclusion, this comprehensive volume presents the outcomes of the groundbreaking "Boa_Ma_Nhã,Maputo!" research-by-design project. It highlights the challenges of urbanization in the Global South and emphasizes the importance of considering local factors, the WEF Nexus, and collaboration with local stakeholders in shaping development strategies. The project's findings have significant implications for the field of development studies and practice and provide a valuable roadmap for creating sustainable and inclusive development solutions in the context of the Global South.

Weight: 576g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030965372
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022