UNPLANNED SETTLEMENTS ARE DETRIMENTAL TO OUR ECONOMY

ZAMBIA, a country with a rich cultural heritage and a diverse landscape is currently grappling with the cholera outbreak which has so far claimed over 300 lives. According to authorities, the cholera epicentres remain Kanyama and George compounds which are highly populated.

But how did these compounds become so populated? Well one straight answer is due to rural-urban migration.

We all know and have that one relative that came to town in search of greener pastures and found themselves residents of these townships and many more that offer affordable accommodation.

On a lighter note, it’s high time the Lozi people reconsidered their engagement in black magic and allowed their relatives to establish homes in Senanga and Kwa Mongu. They must seize the opportunities presented by the expanded scope of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Therefore, as urbanization continues to shape the nation’s future, the importance of well-planned cities cannot be overstated. The power of a thoughtfully designed urban environment goes beyond aesthetics; it plays a pivotal role in fostering economic growth, social cohesion, and sustainable development.

Well-planned cities in Zambia serve as catalysts for economic prosperity. Strategic placement of commercial and industrial zones, coupled with efficient transportation infrastructure, facilitates trade and commerce. This not only attracts local businesses but also encourages foreign investment, contributing to job creation and overall economic development. A thriving economy translates into improved living standards and increased opportunities for the population.

Cities designed with foresight prioritize robust infrastructure and connectivity. In Zambia, a well-connected city ensures efficient transportation, reducing commute time, and boosting productivity. Well-maintained roads, modern public transportation systems, and smart city initiatives enhance mobility, making it easier for residents to access education, healthcare, and job opportunities.

A well-planned city promotes social inclusivity by providing accessible amenities for all residents. Parks, recreational spaces, and cultural centres contribute to a sense of community and well-being. Additionally, well-designed housing projects accommodate diverse socio-economic groups, fostering a balanced and harmonious society. By addressing the needs of both urban and rural populations, these cities bridge the gap between different segments of the population.

Sustainable development lies at the core of well-planned cities. With Zambia’s commitment to environmental conservation, urban planning becomes a key instrument in achieving this goal. Implementing green spaces, renewable energy sources, and waste management systems helps to mitigate environmental impact. Smart urban planning also considers the preservation of natural resources, contributing to a healthier and more resilient ecosystem.

Cities like Lusaka with a huge number of unplanned settlements face various challenges, from natural disasters to socio-economic shifts. Well-planned cities in Zambia are equipped to navigate and bounce back from these challenges efficiently. Disaster-resistant infrastructure, contingency plans, and adaptive strategies ensure that the city can withstand shocks and continue to provide essential services to its residents.

The power of a well-planned city in Zambia is undeniable, offering a blueprint for sustainable development, economic growth, and enhanced quality of life.

This is the reason Zambia Institute of Planners (ZIP) president Busiku Sulwe is concerned over the apparent disregard for professional planning advice by the Government ministries and departments, on issues for local communities.

According to Mr. Sulwe, problems such as floods in many townships could be effectively controlled if authorities respected the expertise of planners from the Institute.

He highlighted instances where planning officers offering advice contrary to the preferences of top officials faced repercussions, often being reassigned to rural areas as a form of punishment. This practice undermines the value of professional planning insights, hindering the potential for well-organized and sustainable urban development.

He has since called for joint efforts to mitigate and prevent the adverse consequences of poor planning, further stressing that the current flooding, particularly in Lusaka, could have been averted if authorities had heeded the sound advice provided by planners.

For him, as the nation continues its journey towards urbanization, investing in thoughtful urban planning will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter, more resilient future. Through strategic decision-making and community engagement, Zambia’s cities can serve as beacons of progress, setting an example for the transformative potential of well-designed urban environments.

ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF WELL-PLANNED TOWNSHIPS

Well-planned cities optimize infrastructure, transportation, and zoning, reducing commuter time and enhancing overall efficiency. This, in turn, boosts productivity among the workforce and stimulates economic growth.

Thoughtful urban planning attracts both local and foreign investments. Industries and businesses thrive in environments with well-organized infrastructure, leading to job creation and economic development.

Planned cities often experience an increase in property values. This benefits homeowners, local businesses, and the municipal Government through higher property taxes, contributing to a stable revenue base.

Aesthetic and functional urban designs, coupled with accessible amenities, attract tourists and shoppers. This influx contributes to the local economy through spending on goods, services, and hospitality.

Well-planned cities often become hubs for innovation and technology, fostering the growth of knowledge-based industries. This, in turn, leads to the creation of high-skilled jobs and increased economic diversification.

Meanwhile, poorly planned cities often face issues of inadequate infrastructure, leading to congestion, traffic, and insufficient public services. This strain hampers economic activities and lowers the overall quality of life for residents.

Informal settlements in poorly planned cities may lack proper sanitation and waste disposal facilities. This results in health hazards, spreading diseases and negatively impacting the well-being of residents, ultimately affecting workforce productivity.

Residents in poorly planned areas may face challenges accessing job opportunities due to inadequate transportation links and insufficient commercial zones. This limits economic mobility and perpetuates cycles of poverty.

The lack of proper planning can result in a haphazard mix of residential and industrial zones, leading to decreased property values. This affects homeowners negatively and may discourage investment in the area.

Poorly planned cities often witness environmental degradation, including deforestation, air and water pollution, and the destruction of natural habitats. This not only impacts the ecosystem but also deters potential investors concerned with sustainable practices.

Therefore, the economic benefits of a well-planned city are numerous, contributing to the prosperity and well-being of its residents. Conversely, a poorly planned city, like Kanyama and Misisi compounds, are always disadvantaged, hinder economic growth, pose health risks, and limit the overall potential for sustainable development for a country like Zambia.

The Author is an Economist and a multiple award-winning journalist