Placemaking and sustainability in Africa: Advancing inclusive and circular development

Introduction

Africa’s rapid urbanisation and socio-economic challenges, coupled with escalating inequality (Woyo and Tafirenyika, 2024) and the impacts of climate change, suggest the critical importance of sustainable placemaking. Urban spaces across the continent are increasingly pressured to respond to complex issues related to population growth, environmental degradation, and socio-economic disparities. Although placemaking and sustainability have been extensively studied in other parts of the world, African contexts are underrepresented in this discourse. Research has predominantly focused on Western contexts, overlooking the distinct challenges that African cities face, such as the rapid pace of urban growth, significant inequality, and pronounced vulnerability to climate change. The special issue seeks to address these gaps by examining how placemaking initiatives in Africa contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 10 (reduced inequalities), 12 (responsible consumption and production), and 13 (climate action). It will address key challenges, such as inequality, responsible consumption, and climate resilience.

Existing literature reveals lack of theoretical frameworks that encompasses the intersection of placemaking, sustainability, and social equity in African cities. Studies on informal placemaking highlight the role of grassroots efforts in fostering sustainable communities (Erek and Krasznahorkai, 2024); however, these studies rarely include African case studies. Similarly, research on small urban municipalities in Ontario has also shown that local governance plays a critical role in sustainable development (Turvey, 2017), suggesting that examining the challenges and contributions of local governance in African cities could reveal valuable insights into how placemaking can support urban development. Moreover, studies on the socio-political dimensions of placemaking in informal settlements emphasise the importance of community-driven urban generation (Beza and Hernandez-Garcia, 2017), a theme that resonates strongly with the grassroots movements and community organisations found in many African cities. This special issue will thus provide new perspectives on how African placemaking initiatives, involving governments, businesses, and community stakeholders, contribute to sustainable development goals, enhancing inclusive, resilient urban spaces.  

Placemaking in African cities presents unique challenges and opportunities. Community-led initiatives can be powerful tools in addressing socio-economic disparities and enhancing resilience in urban spaces. For example, circular economy practices, such as waste reduction and resource efficiency, can be integrated into urban planning to minimise environmental impact and promote responsible consumption. Businesses play a critical role in advancing these practices by adopting sustainable models that support local economies and reduce environmental footprint. Additionally, urban regeneration projects that prioritise eco-friendly infrastructure, low-carbon designs, and sustainable mobility options are essential for enhancing climate resilience. This special issue will feature studies that analyse these initiatives, including sustainable tourism and business strategies, and their implications for sustainable urban and place development across African cities.

The role of local governance is another critical aspect of sustainable placemaking. African cities vary widely in governance structures and capabilities, which impacts their ability to implement effect and inclusive policies. By evaluating the challenges and contributions of local governments, businesses, and community organisations in driving sustainable placemaking initiatives, this issue will provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, businesses, and urban planners focused on sustainable urban development. These recommendations aim to support inclusive policies, enhance place-based circular economies, and promote strategies that reduce inequalities, promote responsible consumption, and advance climate action.

List of topic areas

In the following, we propose a (partial) list of suggested topics that align with the aim of the Special Issue:

1. Comparative studies on community-led placemaking initiatives that address socio-economic disparities in African cities (SDG 10).
2. Examination of circular economy practices, such as waste reduction and resources efficiency, in urban planning across Africa and their impact on sustainable development (SDG 12).
3. Case studies on urban regeneration initiatives that integrate eco-friendly infrastructure, low-carbon designs, and sustainable mobility to strengthen climate resilience in African urban areas (SDG 13).
4. Assessment of the roles of local governments in driving sustainable, low-carbon development through inclusive policymaking and governance frameworks that support sustainability and equity (SDG 10 and 13).
5. Exploration of the synergies between sustainable tourism, urban placemaking, and the development of local, place-based circular economies in African cities, with focus on supporting SDG 12. 

Submissions Information

Submissions are made using ScholarOne Manuscripts. Registration and access are available here. 

Author guidelines must be strictly followed.

Authors should select (from the drop-down menu) the special issue title at the appropriate step in the submission process, i.e. in response to "Please select the issue you are submitting to". 

Submitted articles must not have been previously published, nor should they be under consideration for publication anywhere else, while under review for this journal.

Key deadlines

Opening date for manuscripts submissions: 31st August, 2025

Closing date for manuscripts submission: 31st January, 2026