Research project Emergent “world-class” transport infrastructures
Large scale transport infrastructure projects such as the construction of ring roads, highways and bridges are re-making many cities in Africa at considerable speed. Seen as key for promoting economic development and reinventing the image of African cities projects of creating “world class transport infrastructure” draw on globally circulating models, expertise and finance. Despite their centrality in reshaping urban opportunities and in engendering new forms of governing, research on transport infrastructure projects in urban Africa is scarce. This project addresses this research gap through a comparative and empirically grounded study of the socio-spatial effects of new large-scale transport infrastructure projects in Maputo (Mozambique), Niamey (Niger), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) and Accra (Ghana). It explores the social and environmental sustainability of “world-class” transport infrastructure. More specifically it examines how these infrastructures reconfigure patterns of urban inclusion/exclusion for instance by restructuring access to valuable infrastructural spaces (i.e. public spaces located on or adjacent to transport infrastructure, such as road sides, bridges, junctions and bus stations) for diverse purposes commuting, social and income activities. Qualitative and ethnographic methods will be used, including participant observation, visual methods and interviews with state actors, relevant corporations, civil society leaders, and selected groups of urban dwellers.
Figures:
Africa’s largest suspension bridge, finalized in 2018, dominates Maputo’s skyline. Photo: Ilda Lindell.
A profitable informal market nearby the bridge construction area was to be demolished. Maputo. Photo: Ilda Lindell.
The vendors refused to vacate the land and stalled the bridge construction for one year. Maputo. Photo: Ilda Lindell.
During the impass, vendors make use of the future pillars of the bridge. Maputo. Photo: Ilda Lindell.
A new market space was build to relocate the vendors from the bridge area, but most vendors refused to move in. Maputo. Photo: Ilda Lindell.
The informal market was eventually demolished. Vendors selling their products on the rubbled of their market. Maputo. Photo: Ilda Lindell.
Displaced vendors momentarily re-occupy the valued market site, selling their goods on the pavement. Maputo. Photo: Ilda Lindell.
Along Maputo’s ring road, signs have been posted prohibiting vending on the roadside. Photo: Ilda Lindell.
Vendors appropriate segments of the roadsides of the ring road, despite prohibitions. Maputo. Photo: Ilda Lindell.
Flyover at Nkrumah Circle, a three-tier interchange in central Accra, built to replace a smaller, older roundabout. Photo: Lena Fält
Nkrumah Circle is often referred to as “Dubai” because of its modern, large-scale infrastructure design. Photo: Lena Fält
Part of the flyover, with traders in the background. Photo: Lena Fält
Many traders operate in the area, both at the market and on surrounding pavements. Photo: Lena Fält
Local authorities have attempted, in different ways, to remove traders from the area. In this photo, stones have been placed under the flyover to prevent street trading. Photo: Lena Fält
The new infrastructure has also opened new opportunities for trade. Street lighting introduced as part of the project enables traders to work in the evening and at night. Photo: Lena Fält
The flyover also provides traders with protection from the sun and rain. Photo: Lena Fält