Browsing by Author "Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope."

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Addressing the spatial inequality of economic infrastructure through spatial planning: a case of the proposed Edendale town centre in Msunduzi municipality.
(2018) Mkhize, Ntuthuko Brian.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
The apartheid planning in South Africa, legislated bias and racialized urban development through the common and notorious ‘apartheid city model’. Central to the apartheid’s spatial planning was unequal distribution of infrastructure, amenities and accessibility and most importantly was the long distance between residential and workplaces within low income residential areas. Therefore, it is still difficult for residents in the former townships to access socio-economic opportunities within their settlements as the necessary infrastructure for that has long remained insufficient. The resultant fragmented spatial form has resulted in widespread spatial inequality while making it difficult for government to integrate those areas spatially. Currently, South African spatial planning is still faced with a huge obligation to integrate the previously fragmented townships through encouraging the development of economic infrastructure to where most people live. This could play a role in integrating the previously disadvantaged areas while also improving the socio-economic status of those areas. The government of South Africa had introduced the National Development Plan (NDP) as the driving tool to address the spatial legacy in the former townships through its Urban Network Strategy (UNS). Henceforth, this study employed a mixed-method approach (both qualitative and quantitative) of data collection to investigate how spatial planning can foster and influence the development of economic infrastructure in the former townships to address the abovementioned spatial inequalities. Based on the findings of this research; it was proven that there is much expected from the Edendale Town Centre initiative in addressing spatial inequality in the study area. As rarely been the case before, the findings reveal that the initiative is likely to stimulate local economic development through the development of the informal traders’ market and the SMME Incubators. The findings also reveal that economic infrastructure planned within the proposed Town Centre such as the proposed mixed-use developments; will effectively address the socio-economic challenges facing Edendale Township and other surrounding areas while also integrating it to the Pietermaritzburg city centre and other better developed neighborhoods within Msunduzi Municipality. The Integrated Rapid Transport Network (IRPTN) which is also planned closer to the proposed Town Centre is more probable to improve public transport in the area. Hence, this will in turn reduce the spatial inequality of economic infrastructure in the area. However, the researcher concludes and recommends that to witness the era with reduced spatial inequality, there must be a link between infrastructure provision and spatial planning.
Assessing the extent of informal markets integration into spatial planning frameworks: a case study of KwaMashu, eThekwini Municipality.
(2018) Ntaka, Minenhle Nyaniso.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
Spatial inequality is the net result of urban imbalances in relation to the equal and sufficient distribution of resources. The urban environment is a mechanism in its own right and its functionality is determined by various forces of concentration, integration, scattering, poverty and segregation. The distribution of space is affected by various elements such as health, politics, education, economic significance and income levels. The latter being one of every community’s essential needs. Systematic evidence of the extent of economic difficulties in developing countries shows that this issue affects Black communities the most. This has an impact on the creation of job opportunities, which in turn leads to an increase in unemployment rates thus the increase of informality within urban areas. Therefore, people in need of income enter the informal economy as means of survival. Understanding the developmental role of spatial planning frameworks towards urban construction is vital due to the level of influential affect it has on urban spatial distribution. The functionality of the urban space is guided by the urban planning informed by spatial planning frameworks. The level of equality and inclusiveness distribution of urban socioeconomic spaces is determined by the levels of productivity in every sector. Identifying the levels of productivity in the informal economy reveals the extent to which the informal economy is integrated into spatial planning frameworks thus influencing urban spatial distribution and sector productivity. The urban space is not only constructed by policy and systems but the most significant constituent of the city is the role played by major role players (state/government), stakeholders and beneficiaries. There is a growing body of documented work that reveals the existence of informal markets in many forms in various areas. It supports the view that the urban form does not appreciate informality thus it aims to reduce if not eradicate it. A sufficient strategic way to reduce informality is to spatially limit it. With the rapid recognition of the informal market in recent years, there has been a certain degree of informality acceptance within urban spaces, but there are still important unresolved barriers issues. Authorities mention various challenges informal trader and government have in practice linked to the productivity rate of existing spatial planning Frameworks and the urban spatial structure. There are also challenges faced by the society and its powers when attempting to integrate informal markets into spatial planning frameworks. The study incorporates the use of a Mixed methods due to that the approach entail systematic processes of data collection that influenced the nature of result obtained, it also consist of strategies that analysis and constructs the presentation the data. The approach extracts information on the topic where interrelated ideas and realities are identified using numbers and documented data. The approach formulates a clear view on how spatial planning frameworks have affected the informal economy. The approach allowed for the use of secondary data method and primary data method. Secondary Data that has been processed and analysed informed the study by constructing a basic theoretical framework and the ability of the government to facilitate a sustainable urban planning policy that is inclusive, promotes equality and spatial justice. Primary data consist of raw information obtained through mapping, survey questions and observation which derived the study to critically analyse existing environments spatial advantage’s, disadvantages, potential, operational model and level of functionality. Findings obtained through the critical purpose, sampling on successive occasions approach and thematic data analysis informed study findings. The approaches appropriate the study by allowing ground work observation, validating the research’s topic, objectives and questions. the conclude that claim to informality acceptance is suspected to be greater on paper than what is on the ground, even though there are few spatial frameworks formulated by the government/municipality that have been implemented. These frameworks address the socio- economic factors for the poor through the implementation of programmes and projects that attempt to increase job opportunities for the poor. Nevertheless, despite these concerns, there seems to be little consensus on the cause of spatial inequality as the factor influenced by policy weakness and failure. The paper recommendations explain the possibility of sustainable spatial transformation through a series of process, strategies and models that can be implemented to improve policy efficiency in increasing informal market business accessibility into Industrial Development Corporation, Access to assets for financial assistance and placing emphasis on Investment as a key factor for economic sustainability In Conclusion the elements of attempt to understand how policy makers should respond to growing community values, needs and issues is directed should be directed by the society itself whether the government addresses spatial inequalities via spatial planning frameworks and strategies or in other ways, the community must be involved in all processes of urban planning.
Assessing the impact of low-cost housing in small towns: a comparison approach of the Nkandla and Umzimkhulu Municipalities in South Africa.
(2020) Zama, Siyabonga Charles.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
Apartheid spatial planning has deprived most people, especially the African majority, of opportunities including decent shelter and formal human settlements. The government has thus recognised housing provision as a fundamental component in changing the lives of poor people, particularly in areas that were neglected during the apartheid government's rule. The Reconstruction Development Programme (RDP) is the commitment of the Democratic Government to deal with housing problems within the country. The study was aimed at conducting an assessment of the impact of low-cost housing in small towns. This was done through a comparison between two small municipalities of Nkandla and Umzimkhulu. The study employed a mixed-method approach to study the research aim and objectives. The approach consisted of qualitative and quantitative datasets. The quantitative data was obtained by means of a questionnaire, while the qualitative data was obtained by conducting key informant interviews. A random sampling approach was used to recruit study participants. This sampling approach was useful in reducing biases in the sampled population and thus increasing the reliability of the study findings. A total of 100 people (n=100) were sampled from the study areas by selecting 50 participants from each community. The two key informants (n= 2) that were interviewed in the study were selected through a purposive sampling method. The quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics and displayed using graphs and tables. The qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. The research found that low-cost housing supply has enhanced the research areas' socio-economic status. In both Nkandla and Umzimkhulu, low-cost houses expanded people's access to government services such as health centres, parks and schools, among others. The provision of the houses in the case studies exposed the communities to improved basic services such as sanitation, electricity and water. However, it was also found that a significant number of people were not satisfied with the quality of their houses. The complaints raised included roofs with no ceilings, doors that were difficult to open or close, and broken windows. The researcher recommended that the quality of the low-cost houses be improved. It was also recommended that the government work closely with community members to further improve the socio-economic status of the communities.
Assessing the impacts of urban decay on the residential land-uses : the case of Durban South Beach, South Africa.
(2017) Ndlebe, Tulisa Able.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
Urban decay is a phenomenon that affects most cities globally and it can have adverse effects on Town Planning schemes as well as land-uses that exist within a city. South African cities are no exception; they have seen the dawn of urban decay largely put developments and schemes in jeopardy. The decay of urban areas is the outcome of varying factors that lead to the failing economy of a city. With the invasion of urban decay in cities of South Africa, the country has been urged to adopt a remedial action called urban regeneration which is largely used in most international countries. However, the urban regeneration strategy has been criticised of marginalising the poor, gentrification as well as stripping the city of its heritage due to utilizing modern and foreign designs of urban renewal. With these emerging concerns of urban regeneration, it has come to a point where an undiluted communicative action is required. It must be borne in mind that planners are public servants as they plan for people, therefore, the input of the people whom planners plan for need to be heard and accounted for in all developments of residential land-uses. The main point of this dissertation was to assess the impacts of urban decay on the residential land-use. Moreover, this dissertation has sought to find out opinions of people who reside in decaying areas, owners of decaying buildings and people in the planning profession, on what could possibly be remedial to urban decay. The research has adopted the Qualitative research method, which incorporated both primary and secondary data to analyse the relationship between urban decay and the residential land-use. The focus of the research was on South Beach area of the Durban CBD where urban decay is still ripe. It has been found that urban decay lowers the quality of life for citizens residing in the area, promotes lack of investor confidence, and motivates criminal activities to take place in a decaying neighbourhood among other outcomes of urban decay. The positive sides of a decaying neighbourhood are that it is accessible to everyone and does not marginalise the lower-class citizens. This is because rent prices to occupy spaces are lower and in most cases, decaying neighbourhoods are closer to the CBD and amenities. The city of Durban has adopted the Problem Buildings Bylaw in March 2016, which aims to deal with decaying and abandoned buildings within the CBD. Urban decay is an issue that needs to be addressed, but with both an economic goal and a goal for improving lives of people.
Assessing the inclusiveness of informal markets in urban planning: case of Matsheni Taxi Rank (East Street Rank) on Retief St. in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
(2017) Madondo, Thandoluhle Samantha.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
Informal trading within the cities of South Africa in the past has been regarded as an illegal activity. Thus, the emergence of informal markets in South Africa has been viewed as a major problem by developers especially incorporating the sector into the planning processes of urban development methodologies. There is growing evidence that most cities across the world are gradually seeing the value of informal trade in hopes to assist in the economic development of a country. This research examines the use of urban planning tools in the built environment as a medium of recognizing the importance of street trade to economic growth and development. This research evaluates the inclusivity of implemented planning policies in Pietermaritzburg Msunduzi municipality. It investigates the monitoring and control measures put in place for urban trade within the city. The study aims to understand how the Municipality creates support structures/systems for the development of the informal market in the downtown segment of the city- an area that is known to be the center of informal trading activities within the city. Although there has been the implementation of LED (local economic development) programs to enable and strengthen the support of informal trade, however, there has been a shortfall in positive results due to lapses in the implementation of these programs. Evidence from other countries reveals that informal markets are currently still a factor in cities (whether in more developed counties or less developed) and are addressed as being part of urban development, therefore, policies and legislation that take this segment of the economy into consideration are implemented for development. As mentioned in the methodology chapter, out of the six taxi ranks in Pietermaritzburg East Street rank has very interesting informal trading conditions. Thus, the study focused on the East Street rank to understand how the Municipality promotes support structures for the informal market.
Assessing the inclusiveness of urban regeneration projects: the case study of Point Waterfront Development Precinct, Durban.
(2018) Ngidi, Lindinkosi Vusimuzi.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
Abstract available on PDF.
Assessing the relationship between urban blight and city attractiveness: the case of Mthatha CBD.
(2018) Mzamo, Bulelani.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
This study interrogates the conception of urban blight in the context of Mthatha, which is a relatively small town as compared to big cities. The aim of this study is to establish and assess the relationship between urban blight and city attractiveness. This is motivated by the view that in existing discourse, the notion of urban blight is often presented within a confined paradigm of big cities and the problems they face. In so doing, the study argues that urban blight can apply even to smaller towns regardless of the fact that they are faced with different dynamics from the cities within which the concept of urban blight interrogated. In the context of Mthatha, one of those dynamics is the attractiveness of the town as it functions as a regional socio-economic hub in its district. Interestingly, upon employing qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques in complementary ways using primary and secondary data, the study finds that this attractiveness causes urban blight in the Mthatha CBD. This is based on the findings that demonstrate that this city attractiveness yields an overloaded landscape that generally fails to cater for the people that depend on it. This is attested by the fact that the attractiveness of the Mthatha CBD has resulted in the proliferation of an immense informal sector, which thrives through exploiting the infrastructure of the town. Evidently, this does not only overburden the infrastructure, but also brings about derogatory land uses and property encroachments that depress property values and accelerate the rate of deterioration of not only the properties, but also the infrastructure of the town. Eventually, this results in a blighted urban landscape that yields crime and poses a threat to the public for health and safety reasons. To curb this, the study proposes an urban regeneration that will target issues pertaining legislation and policy, infrastructure backlogs, housing delivery, local economic development and increasing the revenue base of the KSDLM as it is essential in improving the lives of the people of Mthatha.
Assessing the role of gated communities in reproducing the existing patterns of urban segregation: a case study of Mount Edgecombe Country Estate, Durban, South Africa.
(2016) Sosibo, Phila.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
There are increasing levels of inequality in the new democratic South Africa. Inequality continues to rise even when the Apartheid policies have been abolished. Crime levels are amongst the socioeconomic issues that is increasing drastically in the country. Gated communities are growing all over the world especially in developing countries where crime levels and other socioeconomic issues pose serious challenges to the development and growth of South Africa. The gated communities in South Africa are deemed as a response to the high crime levels however; there has been much criticism of them contributing to the increasing levels of inequality and segregation in South Africa. There are different types of gated communities and in the South African context, security villages and enclosed neighbourhoods are the most common. Mount Edgecombe Country Estate the case study of the dissertation is categorised as a security village and much of the concept of gated communities in this dissertation refers to the security village type of gated community. Gated communities in South Africa and around the world have come under much scrutiny because of the division in brings amongst different communities. Gated communities are criticised for privatising public space, limiting public movement, privatising, and not sharing resources and goods and they are classified as being racist which all contributes to segregation in urban areas. This dissertation focuses on assessing the role of gated communities in reproducing the existing patterns of urban segregation. Policies and violence over the years have orchestrated South Africa’s history of segregation and racism. The democratic status of the country prohibits policies to segregate people, with the inequality levels increasing there must be institutions and structures, which continue to reproduce the existing patterns of segregation. Gated communities are one of the institutions that continue to reproduce the existing patterns of urban segregation. The study finds that the segregation is positively not in view of race as much as it was in the past in any case; there is class segregation. Cost and affordability determines who stays where and in gated communities, the high-class people are the only ones who can afford. The middle and low class have no place in gated communities in South Africa.
Assessing the sustainable urban development-urban liveability-inclusive physical development nexus in selected cities in north-central Nigeria.
(2022) Blamah, Nunyi Vachaku.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
The continuous increase in the urban population worldwide has exacerbated the intensity of urban land use conversion and spatial consumption. This motivation for a better urban space led to the evolution of sustainable urban development, urban liveability, environmental awareness, inclusivity, and urban governance. Therefore, this research aimed to establish the intricate links between sustainable urban development, urban liveability, and inclusive physical development in selected cities in North-Central Nigeria. The theories examined were Citizen Participation, Dependency, Modernisation, and Infrastructure. The selected cities were Lokoja, Lafia, and Minna, all incidentally equidistant to Abuja, the Federal Capital City of Nigeria. This research employed a mixed-methods approach by collecting both qualitative and quantitative data. These data sets ranged from satellite imageries used for the spatio-temporal analysis and urban growth simulation through ArcGIS, Q-GIS, and the Artificial Neural Network. The extent of infrastructure provision and their methods were appraised using the instrumentality of the nearest neighbour analysis and the partial least square analysis using the SmartPLS. The research also appraised the stakeholders’ perceptions and methods of infrastructure provision through a word cloud analysis using NVivo analytics. In analysing the provision and condition of the infrastructure in North-Central Nigeria, educational infrastructure was found to be inadequate and poorly maintained; inadequate budgetary allocations exacerbated the problem of urban infrastructure overuse; illegal developments often overtook sites reserved for infrastructure; and funding, vandalism, and project continuity were cited as critical factors. The infrastructure that suffered the highest maintenance neglect was the urban water supply, education infrastructure, and the health care facilities. Political motivation and the population played the most significant roles in the region's urban infrastructure or project development. The triad of consumption, access, and equity was used to evaluate Hangwurian City Development's (HCD) proposed sustainable urban infrastructure development plan. Convergent validity was strong in the region, where the AVE was significant at 0.56 or more. A compact development model was found to be a valuable indicator for qualifying the cities. It was found that the challenge of planning regulation and siting of infrastructure could be addressed effectively, however, the public and private sector promoters of projects had to stick to their parts of the bargain. Cities across North-Central Nigeria had to undertake citizen-focused infrastructure planning and development. Therefore, the researcher concluded that city development and urban growth could be moderated through the instrumentality of adequate infrastructure provision and planning to prioritise the needs and desires of residents. This is achievable by adopting the Hangwurian City Development Model, which helps to promote cities without ills.
Assessing the usefulness of water conserving city planning: a case of Inner City Durban, South Africa.
(2019) Mutsaa, Edmore.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
Since the beginning of industrialisation, urban areas have been rapidly growing. Recently, a paradigm shift has become noticeable, away from unchecked city growth toward more sustainable solution to problems rooted in urban water scarcity, subsidised by climate change and a plethora of anthropogenic activities. In the light of numerous negative trends of urban water conservation, the aim of this study is to suggest a far-reaching redefining approach of city planning predominantly focusing on water conservation in urban areas. To achieve this aim, the efficiency of fresh water supply in the city of Durban was examined; the usefulness of the existing water conservation plans was described and the urban land use contribution to water conservation was explored. The researcher used a qualitative research technique in both data collection and analysis. According to the findings, the city of Durban, South Africa as the case study area, made many attempt, drafted plans and policies towards water conservation. These initiatives include water conservation public awareness campaign, water infrastructure improvement, attempts to recycle wastewater and so on, however most these initiatives are seemingly facing challenges in meeting the required end. Consequently, access to water in the near future, if not currently, is becoming contested. To resolve the contestation, an appropriate mechanism is required. By merging both modern water management and city planning, a convincing idea which provide a positive guiding principles and operational framework including measures which will be considerably facilitate a positive move towards a water-secure city can be reached at. To this far, the concept of Integrated Urban Water Management will be recommended.
A critical analysis on the applicability of previously established theoretical growth models in post-apartheid South Africa : the case of the Durban Metropolitan Area.
(2016) Ngidi, Mbalenhle Precious.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
The history of the Durban Metropolitan Area (DMA) is embedded in the establishment of the Port of Durban, which is situated on the coastline that stretches from Umkhomaas (South of Durban) through to the Ballito area (Northern areas). This coastline has developed tourist attraction, from the beaches and the recreational activities surrounding this natural asset. Prior to this tourist hub, Colonial planning models were set to create an industrial city that formed the main import and export point for South Africa and other surrounding colonial regions. The city would accommodate laborers who came from as far as India to work at Durban’s port as well as the sugarcane fields surrounding the Port area. To respond to the growing residential and infrastructural needs, foreign Theoretical Growth Models were replicated and utilized by the Colonial regime to respond to the need for more accommodative spaces. These models included the Burgess Concentric Zone Theory, the Hoyt Sectoral Theory and the Bid Rent theory, which represent the earliest planning tools used in the Durban Metropolitan Area. However, over the years the Durban Metropolitan Area (DMA) has experienced various shifts and development changes in the make-up of its urban realm. With globalization becoming a worldwide norm, its impact on population growth numbers is visible given the pressures for further development from the rate of urbanization. These changes have often associated the Durban Central Business District (DCBD), with negative connotations regarding its physical, social, environmental and political stance as a major node in the City of Durban. The city centre is known for crime, prostitution, haphazard buildings, pollution and business flight. Contrary to that, the North of Durban is currently experiencing numerous major developments and slowly adjusting from a previously agricultural area to a flagship area of prestige landscapes and designs. Various new developments have mushroomed in and around the Northern regions of Durban, following the construction of the Gateway Theatre of Shopping and the relocating of Durban’s International Airport from the South of Durban to the Northern suburbs. These adjustments to the spatial realm have seen decentralization of business from the Durban Central Business District to the Durban North areas. This study analyzes the development trends of the Northern suburbs by identifying the factors that have driven development out of the Durban CBD area to form what is seen as a sub-metropolitan area, or secondary nodal zone. The study informs the state of Durban’s CBD area by analyzing the needs driving the current successful development patterns in the Northern suburbs of Durban. The identified needs will determine whether the previously used theoretical growth models are still relevant to the context and unique needs of South Africa.
A critical assessment of the impacts of mixed land-use developments on socio- economic sustainability: a case study of Isipingo, Ethekwini Municipality.
(2018) Khathi, Ntuthuko Njabulo.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
In contemporary planning, the mixed-land use concept has been perceived as necessary to achieve sustainable human settlements across the globe. The integration of different land-use functions such as residential, commercial, recreational, and institutional in an urban environment is one of the goals of planning policies within Post-Apartheid South Africa. Prior studies have mainly mentioned the benefits of mixed land-use development towards creating sustainable environments. However, these studies have not thoroughly emphasized the challenges associated with such developments. This study attempts to critically analyze the socio-economic impact of mixed land-uses particularly in the Isipingo study area, situated within Durban, eThekwini municipality. The research methodology undertaken within the study included qualitative research. Field observations and individual interviews were conducted as part of qualitative research to investigate the perceptions of key informants, business owners and residents effected by these developments within Isipingo. The study examined residents’ perception with the help of a criteria used to measure the sustainability of mixed use developments. The criteria measured whether the mixed land-use developments in Isipingo provide access to infrastructure services, access to a range of housing typologies, access to economic and job opportunities, access to public and recreational facilities, access to a range of transportation options, as well as safety and surveillance to its inhabitants. The findings of the study revealed that mixed land-use developments within Isipingo provided minimal benefits and a number of negative impacts. Residents were satisfied with how mixed land-uses provide job opportunities and housing choice. However, residents were uncomfortable with the air, land and noise pollution associated with such developments. In addition, they felt unsafe and consistently expressed how unsettled they are in Isipingo.
Evaluating the current use of urban open spaces versus their purpose use: a case study of Albert park and Gugu Dlamini park, eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal,South Africa.
(2019) Mndzebele, Mhlalisi Gavu.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
Urban open spaces play a critical role in cities by means of providing spaces for recreational, health and leisure activities. This thesis highlights that there is unmistakable evidence of economic, social and environmental benefits of urban open spaces in cities. The design and planning are the contrivances that help to provide usable and liveable spaces that encourage users to choose to spend time in them. There are diverse activities that do not signify the intentional use of urban open spaces. This dissertation evaluates the current and purpose use of urban open spaces at Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park, Durban, South Africa. The study was investigated through interviews with relevant stakeholders and direct observations. The dissertation reveals an understanding of how urban open spaces are used internationally and then makes a shift on how they are used locally. As a result of poor management and enforcement, it was discovered that urban open spaces are currently dominated by informal activities. This study provides a number of recommendations on how best and effectively urban open spaces can be utilised, which includes incorporating urban open spaces within the municipal’s strategic goals and ensuring they correspond to economic needs.
Evaluating the viability of using methane gas produced within landfill processes to generate electricity: a case study of Mariannhill landfill site, eThekwini Municipality, South Africa.
(2018) Zulu, Sandile.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
With South Africa facing the urgent crisis of a shortage of energy; the drawbacks are deeply felt by the population who continuously face increasing electricity prices. In addition, Eskom is the hegemonic energy supplier of electricity in the Republic, mainly through the combustion of coal. A process that is not environmentally sustainable, and resembles an outdated method of generating energy. Thus, this calls for a change in basic assumptions within the production of energy. Moreover, alternative energy sources ought to be developed to diversify the energy sector. Considering this, the following thesis seeks to explore and validate the use of methane gas extraction to produce electricity from a renewable energy source perspective. The focus of this research is to evaluate the viability of using methane gas extraction within landfill sites to generate energy. This was achieved through the assessment of the Mariannhill Landfill Site, which has been generating electricity from capturing methane gas since 2006 (making this the ideal time to undertake such a study as the gas-to-electricity project at the Mariannhill Landfill Site has been operating for just over 10 years). The findings show that 90% of people feel that there are tangible benefits from the use of alternative energy (making specific reference to gas-to-electricity projects). In as much as it can be agreed on that alternative energy sources yield concrete benefits; the findings reveal that alternative energy sources within South Africa produce very little benefits. This is largely due to the bias governing policy (the Renewable Feed-in tariff, REFIT) that deals with the electrification of alternative energy sources. Alternative energy sources (making specific reference to methane gas capture) produce substantial amounts of energy, but cannot plug the energy back into the electricity grids (both the national and local grid) as the tedious policy forms a challenging barrier. This calls for an immediate address of this piece of legislation to realise the maximum benefits of alternative energy (especially methane gas capture).
Examining the concept of gender mainstreaming in urban space to promote inclusive cities: the case of Warwick market, Durban, South Africa.
(2021) Rampaul, Kiara.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
Urban spaces are vital in community life because they allow individuals to build social relationships, participate in activities, and access green places. The ability to occupy an urban or public area can have a favourable influence on one's social, emotional, and physical health. In this day and age, there is a clear disparity in who may safely enter and use these locations. The term "inclusive city" speaks for itself: it is a city built for everyone, one that values all of its citizens and their needs equally, and so must address gender disparity. Gender Inclusive Cities are planned and designed using gender mainstreaming, which includes all women in decision-making processes and aims to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 11: Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. Currently, both men and women use metropolitan places; nonetheless, the urban environment can still be considered as a mostly masculine sphere, in which women may feel more awkward, unwanted, or excluded than men. The exclusion of women and girls from the urban planning process generates a knowledge gap, resulting in public spaces that exclude them. Women are being let down by city planning. This research will follow a case study design to explore the concept of gender mainstreaming in city planning of urban spaces.
Examining the effectiveness of the land use management framework in Ntambanana Municipality.
(2016) Nsele, Thembeka.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
Land use management in South Africa was historically used to racially and spatially segregate areas. Post-Apartheid, South Africa has had pressure to restore places and promote equality. Several legislative frameworks have been introduced to address past imbalances and create new urban spaces. Thus, all municipalities (including rural) have had to adhere to the Municipal Systems Act (2000), the Development Facilitative Act (1995) and the Spatial Planning and the Land Use Management Act of 2013 (SPLUMA), which is the most recent. Evidently, rural municipalities usually have more challenges when implementing land use management systems. This research examines the effectiveness of the Land Use Management Framework (LUMF) in Ntambanana Municipality. It further measures the community of Ntambanana against the normative concerns of Behrens and Watson (1996). The focus of the research is to access what impacts the land use management framework has had on the people of Ntambanana, with the intent to suggest solutions. The majority of the land within the municipality is traditionally owned, however the findings show that the municipality, together with the traditional leaders are still able to implement projects to improve land use management systems. Using both qualitative and quantitative research methods, in the form of interviews and questionnaires, the findings show that the community of Ntambanana has changed for the better since the implementation of the land use management framework. To avoid biasness, the local residents were selected at random and the municipal official and traditional leader were selected purposively to answer questions directly related to their duties within the municipality. The findings of the research also show that there is disintegration among the stakeholders (traditional authorities, the municipality, the councillors and the community). However, with a modification in policy and the participation of all stakeholders within the community, Ntambanana municipality has the potential to greatly improve land use management systems.
Examining the effectiveness of the land use management framework in Ntambanana Municipality.
(2016) Nsele, Thembeka.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
Land use management in South Africa was historically used to racially and spatially segregate areas. Post-Apartheid, South Africa has had pressure to restore places and promote equality. Several legislative frameworks have been introduced to address past imbalances and create new urban spaces. Thus, all municipalities (including rural) have had to adhere to the Municipal Systems Act (2000), the Development Facilitative Act (1995) and the Spatial Planning and the Land Use Management Act of 2013 (SPLUMA), which is the most recent. Evidently, rural municipalities usually have more challenges when implementing land use management systems. This research examines the effectiveness of the Land Use Management Framework (LUMF) in Ntambanana Municipality. It further measures the community of Ntambanana against the normative concerns of Behrens and Watson (1996). The focus of the research is to access what impacts the land use management framework has had on the people of Ntambanana, with the intent to suggest solutions. The majority of the land within the municipality is traditionally owned, however the findings show that the municipality, together with the traditional leaders are still able to implement projects to improve land use management systems. Using both qualitative and quantitative research methods, in the form of interviews and questionnaires, the findings show that the community of Ntambanana has changed for the better since the implementation of the land use management framework. To avoid biasness, the local residents were selected at random and the municipal official and traditional leader were selected purposively to answer questions directly related to their duties within the municipality. The findings of the research also show that there is disintegration among the stakeholders (traditional authorities, the municipality, the councillors and the community). However, with a modification in policy and the participation of all stakeholders within the community, Ntambanana municipality has the potential to greatly improve land use management systems.
Investigating the experiences of refugees in accessing proper housing in urban areas: the case of eThekwini Municipality (Durban CBD), South Africa.
(2018) Dlamini, Nokubonga Philile Mirandah.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
The provision of proper housing has been an urgent and a thorny issue in South Africa for decades. The country attempted to deal with this challenge through the RDP (Reconstruction and Development Programme) in the post-1994 dispensation. The attempt was not only meant to address housing for the poor, but also to encourage economic growth and make it possible for a large number of people from informal settlements to enter the housing market. Most importantly, RDP was also an attempt to fulfil the requirements of section 26 of the Constitution, which states that everyone has the right to have access to adequate housing. One of the main shortcomings of the RDP programme was that one had to be a South African citizen to receive a ‘RDP house’, which then raises a question on the constitutional imperative of housing for all, making it much more complex. The Constitution also makes it clear that everyone, irrespective of citizenship, has the right to access proper housing. What then does this mean for refugees, whether poor or not? Do they, in practice, have access to adequate housing? This study thus investigates the experiences of refugees in accessing housing, especially in the urban areas where most refugees are likely to stay for both economic and security reasons. With the vast number of immigrant applications currently being processed by the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA), most refugees are on waiting lists and some are only provided with temporary residence for only a few months. Both the aforementioned challenges make it difficult for them to get occupancy in the rental housing market and also hinders their ability to buy houses; consequently, refugees are pushed into unregulated, overcrowded and dilapidated inner-city buildings. This is where they are exposed to crime, exploitation by landlords and discrimination including xenophobia. The abovementioned experiences which are substantiated by the findings of this study places an onus on the responsible governmental bodies to address the issue of access to proper housing. Further, the current planning and strategic policies do not seem to be utilising housing as an instrument for sustainable development, promoting social cohesion and combating crime to achieve the objectives stated in the National Development Plan (NDP).
Investigating the implications of the transition from ‘Agrarian Village’ to ‘Edge Town’ : a case study of the upper highway area in Durban, South Africa.
(2017) Smith, Wendy Ann.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
The decentralisation of cities and metropolitan areas to the periphery, and the progressive transitioning of rural areas to urban areas, is a world-wide post-modern phenomenon. Characterised by commercial, retail and residential relocation to the ‘edge’ of the inner city - evolving towns and gated communities represent a new form of fortified space consumption. Inner city decay and peripheral pull factors have expedited the ‘rush of the resourced’ to the perceived safety and tranquillity of the urban periphery. The Upper Highway area located approximately 30kms West of Durban sits on the peripheral edge of the city. In the mid-1990s the area was predominantly agrarian in nature characterised by large tracts of farmland and pockets of ‘country suburbia’ sitting adjacent to traditional tribal land. The intention of this dissertation is to investigate the transition of the Upper Highway area from an ‘agrarian country landscape’ to that of ‘edge town’; particularly focusing on the impact of this transition on local resident’s interactions with this transformed environment; and how the changes are conceptualised by them. Findings confirm an explosion of growth and development in the Upper Highway transforming it from a small village to a fortified edge town. Burgeoning growth and development on one hand has more than met the needs of the middle to upper class in the Upper Highway, but inadequate and sluggish development on the other hand has perpetuated inequality and poverty in adjacent traditional communities. The poor-rich buffer instilled prior to apartheid still exists, and wealth and affluence sit juxtaposed with poverty and a dearth of resources. Residents in Embo display a strong social and community Identity, and disapproval of the out-group. Despite the fact that the Upper Highway area displays the characteristics of a fortified well-resourced ‘edge town’, the rural-urban interface continues to widen, segregation is perpetuated, there is a glaring lack of integration, the status quo is accepted and adaptation strategies instilled during apartheid continue to exist. Future strategies to remedy change need pay special attention to the voices of residents in adjacent traditional areas, stimulate integrated development and embark on a cohesive planning strategy between all key stakeholders.
The level of awareness and perceptions on rooftop gardens: case of eThekwini Municipality City Centre.
(2017) Pillay, Prineesa.; Magidimisha, Hangwelani Hope.
Currently, cities across the globe experience a number of environmental, economic and social concerns and challenges. Central among these are: climate change, food security and unemployment in the urban centre. This research study looks at the concept of rooftop gardens in the urban centre as a means to mitigate some of these issues. With the current state of dwindling resources in South Africa, re-purposing, recycling and the environmentallyfriendly use of city space is of paramount importance. The purposeful design of green cities is one of the ways that a city in the twenty-first century can become increasingly resilient and achieve sustainable growth. The central aim of the study was to determine the level of awareness and perceptions on rooftop gardens. The area in which the study takes place is eThekwini Municipality city centre. Main objectives of this study are assessing the levels of awareness on rooftop gardens, to examine the perceptions on rooftop gardens and review local and international literature and experiences on rooftop gardens. The use of both qualitative and quantitative data methods were chosen for the methodology of the study and involved the use of questionnaires, interviews, spatial mapping as well as observation. The snowball technique of sampling was prominent in the study in order to achieve the required sample size. The study revealed that many people have a positive reaction towards urban rooftop gardens. However, the main reason why they not developed on a larger scale in the city is because people do not have extensive information about their overall concept. Not all city rooftops will be able to accommodate rooftop gardens. Accordingly, a full engineering audit needs to be conducted in this regard. There is also a need to look at the existing guidelines so that these can be developed into a formal policy or legislation by the municipal authorities. The recommendations that have been put forward have been based on the results that were collected from the field study.