DIY Urbanism in Africa: Politics and Practice

Protracted economic crises, accelerating inequalities, and increased resource scarcity challenge Africa's urban population. DIY Urbanism in Africa explores how residents invent new tactics and strategies to address security, place-making, and economic problems, offering a critical intervention into urban development and politics in Africa.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Protracted economic crises, escalating inequalities, and heightened resource scarcity pose significant challenges for the majority of Africa's urban population. In cities across the continent, limited state capacity and widespread infrastructure deficiencies often necessitate residents to rely on their own resources, knowledge, and expertise to address life and livelihood dilemmas.

DIY Urbanism in Africa delves into these practices, offering a theoretical framework for analysis and presenting a series of case studies that showcase how residents invent new DIY tactics and strategies in response to security, place-making, or economic problems. This book serves as a timely and critical intervention into the literature on urban development and politics in Africa. It is invaluable to students, policymakers, and urban practitioners interested in understanding the mechanisms and political implications of the widespread dynamics shaping Africa's expanding urban environments.

The book explores the diverse range of DIY urbanism practices across different African cities, including housing construction, community development, waste management, and transportation. It highlights the ingenuity and resilience of residents as they navigate complex urban challenges and create innovative solutions to improve their lives and communities.

One of the key themes of DIY Urbanism in Africa is the role of informal networks and social capital in driving these practices. Residents often form informal associations, cooperatives, and community organizations to share resources, knowledge, and skills and collectively address urban problems. These networks provide a sense of belonging, social support, and collective agency, enabling residents to take control of their urban environments and shape their futures.

However, DIY urbanism also comes with its challenges. The lack of formal infrastructure and regulatory frameworks can make it difficult for residents to access essential services, such as clean water, electricity, and healthcare. Moreover, the informal nature of these practices can make them vulnerable to political and economic marginalization, as they may be excluded from mainstream development initiatives and policy discussions.

DIY Urbanism in Africa offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of urban development in Africa. It highlights the resilience and creativity of African urban residents as they navigate challenging circumstances and create sustainable and inclusive communities. The book also raises important questions about the role of the state, private sector, and international agencies in supporting and promoting DIY urbanism practices.

In conclusion, DIY Urbanism in Africa is a timely and important contribution to the literature on urban development and politics in Africa. It provides a rich understanding of the diverse range of DIY urbanism practices across the continent and highlights the resilience and creativity of African urban residents as they navigate complex urban challenges. The book offers valuable insights into the mechanisms and political implications of these practices and provides a basis for developing more inclusive and sustainable urban policies and interventions.

Weight: 534g
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786999016