Adverse incorporation and social exclusion in Harare : an analysis of spatial design mobility and accessibility of low-income groups residing in Harare’s southern suburbs

Abstract

This thesis critically examines the phenomena of adverse incorporation and social exclusion within the context of Harare, Zimbabwe, with a particular focus on the city's southern periphery(Southlea Park and Hopely). Adverse incorporation refers to the process by which individuals or groups are integrated into economic, social, or political systems in a manner that perpetuates their marginalisation, inequality, or exploitation. This concept, coupled with social exclusion—a multidimensional process that prevents individuals or groups from fully participating in the socioeconomic and political life of the city—provides a framework for analysing the living conditions of low-income residents in Harare's peri-urban areas. The research explores how these processes influence key aspects of urban life, particularly mobility, accessibility, and access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. Like many cities in postcolonial Africa, Harare is characterised by significant spatial and socio-economic disparities, a legacy of colonial urban planning that continues to shape the city's development. Despite the abolition of institutionalised racial segregation, the spatial design of Harare remains deeply influenced by its colonial past, manifesting in stark inequalities between the northern affluent areas and the southern low-income suburbs. Through an ethnographic case study approach, this research delves into residents' experiences in Harare’s southern periphery, exploring how historical and contemporary urban planning, socio-political dynamics, and economic structures contribute to their marginalisation. The study reveals that the southern suburbs, originally designed as dormitory towns, are characterised by poor infrastructure, inadequate public services, and limited economic opportunities. These areas have become hubs of poverty, where residents face significant challenges in accessing reliable transportation, quality healthcare, and education, all of which are crucial for improving their socio-economic status. The research findings highlight how marginalised communities experience economic and spatial exclusion in specific areas, leading to long commutes, high transportation costs, and limited access to the city's economic centres, perpetuating poverty and exacerbating social inequalities. The study recommends re-envisioning urban spaces in Harare to promote inclusivity and accessibility, addressing historical and structural inequalities in the city's southern suburbs. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and development practitioners working on urban development in post-colonial African towns.