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Street trading is a highly gendered form of economic activity practiced by the urban poor in most global south cities. Drawing from focus group discussions and in-depth interviews, this paper examines the everyday struggles facing female street traders with children as they negotiate access to contested urban spaces to make a living in Harare's Central Business District (CBD). The paper argues that public spaces in Harare's CBD act as both 'livelihood spaces' and places of intense vulnerability for women who have caregiving roles. Female street traders struggle to balance between selling their goods as well as watching for municipal surveillance. These challenges are dire for women with children. The women often engage in precarious strategies to evade municipal enforcement including using their children as 'shields' for protection from a highly repressive state machinery that is less sympathetic to the plight of the urban poor. Despite facing these constraints, women enact creative practices to lay claims to urban space. This paper contributes to the ongoing scholarly debates on gender and the informal economy in global south cities. We suggest that urban planning initiatives should be attentive to gendered experiences and needs to create more inclusive and equitable urban environments, where female street traders can engage in their livelihoods without facing harassment or violence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the height of Zimbabwe’s multi-layered crisis, emerged several Pentecostal-Charismatic Churches (PCCs). Led by youthful charismatic ‘prophets’, these PCCs gained significant traction in many urban spaces, especially in Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital, where they have sought to ‘Pentecostalise’ the cityscape. Public spaces in Harare have become saturated with Pentecostal aesthetics, which include, but are not limited to, church-branded stickers on vehicles, huge religious billboards at strategic spaces, impressive megachurch buildings, and spectacular public displays. This remarkable growth of PCCs saw them venturing into huge real estate projects that have dramatically reshaped the urban landscape. Through these projects, PCCs are creating ‘cities within cities.’ Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork in Harare, I examine how two PCCs have reconfigured urban landscapes through their projects, activities, and rituals. In addition to a focus on the quotidian dimension of urban life, I also focus on how these projects enable congregants and residents to reimagine the possibilities of a different kind of future and life in the city. Interestingly, the power of the ascendant PCCs is such that they are becoming de facto urban planners themselves and thus their vision for the urban future is creating new ways of relating to the present in the growing city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

African doctoral students studying abroad and returning to their home countries for fieldwork face multiple and complex challenges. This paper reflexively addresses the question of positionality from the experiences of conducting research on urban governance and the spatial politics of street traders in Harare, Zimbabwe. The paper discusses dilemmas associated with navigating insider and outsider identities, showcasing how these categories continually shift while conducting research on street traders within a distinct socio‐cultural and political context. Moreover, the author's background as a former street trader, now pursuing a PhD at the University of Western Ontario in Canada, adds a layer of complexity to the situation, offering valuable insights into how these 'multiple' positionalities can either facilitate or hinder data collection. The paper underscores the nuanced experiences of the researcher in the field, shedding light on the potential challenges, pitfalls and opportunities inherent in grappling with one's positionality. By foregrounding these complexities, the paper contributes to our understanding of the positionalities of researchers in the social sciences and adds to the growing body of literature on methodologies for conducting urban studies, particularly with vulnerable populations. The paper discusses dilemmas of being insider and outsider and how these categories are shifted constantly while researching street traders in a unique socio‐cultural and political context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main thrust of this article is to trace and analyze the development of street theatre practice in contemporary Zimbabwe, paying particular attention to street theatre’s form and the context in which it has operated and operates. Concurrently, the paper examines how the political environment in Zimbabwe has been critical in shaping street theatre form and style. Scott’s theory of hidden transcripts is used to interrogate how street theatre navigates a censorious environment. Drawing on the post-linear and public and hidden transcript theories, the article historically interrogates street theatre as a performance form which adopts radical performance elements, allowing it to navigate an environment dominated by various censorial controls. Based on Scott (1990)’s assertion that the environment in which the subordinate find themselves shapes their public displays, this study argues that street theatre’s style of delivery is a result of the cultural and political background. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zimbabwe’s unending socioeconomic crisis has led to the flooding of informal street vendors in its urban areas, a development that has led to incessant clashes between the street vendors and the local authorities. Literature has shown that street vending is a global phenomenon and its problems could be addressed through best practices of inclusivity. This study examined the situation of informal street vendors in Harare in the light of social inclusion. It also made use of insights from Pope Francis regarding World Popular Movements. Data were collected through focus group discussions comprising six informal street vendors operating in Harare as its participants. Findings revealed that informal street vendors in Harare faced many structural challenges, one of which included operating in contested spaces characterised by violent evictions from vending sites, bribery and power struggles. Results also showed that street vendors lacked access to bank loans, information, and even the power to influence policies which directly affected them. Based on these findings, it was argued that the informal street vendors were socially excluded and needed to be integrated into the economic fabric of the urban society. This social inclusion process was considered as only possible if local authorities adopted an inclusive approach to policymaking. This would entail involving the street vendors when crafting policies that directly affect them. It was recommended that Harare City Council regularises street vending, aligns its by-laws to the National Constitution, and that it also formulates inclusive policies. Contribution: The article makes a contribution towards the promotion of an inclusive society whereby everyone has equal access to social and economic opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The issue of same-sex relationships is complex in Zimbabwe because of the prevailing hostile legal provisions, and cultural and religious beliefs. While it is a criminal offence to practise same-sex relationships in Zimbabwe, the Constitution of Zimbabwe does not tolerate any discrimination against people. The debate on same-sex relationships has been on spotlight in Zimbabwe since 1995 when the late former President of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe, disparaged same-sex relationships as not only unnatural and un-African, but also unchristian. The practice of same-sex relationships has since remained politicised in Zimbabwe and elsewhere within the African region and those practising it have often been discriminated against by society. This article used a qualitative methodology to explore the religious experiences of Christians in same-sex relationships in Harare, using insights from the notion of ubuntu. Field data were gathered through social media from purposively selected respondents who were living in same-sex relationships. Findings revealed that these people felt discriminated against and unsafe in their own churches. Based on these findings, it is argued that despite their respective views on same-sex relationships, the African church should respect the dignity of the people involved in these relationships, and should also create safe spaces for them. Contribution: The article promotes sensitivity to the needs of minority groups in the society and encourages the provision of appropriate guidance on how to deal with the phenomenon of same-sex relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Business tourism scholarship in the Global South is an undeveloped theme in international research. The phenomenon of business tourism in sub-Saharan Africa is urban-centred. This paper unpacks a critical dimension of business tourism in the African city, namely the activities of informal business tourists. Specifically, the focus is on Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital city, as a destination for international informal business travellers. Using qualitative interviews with cross-border traders, new insight is provided on the reasons why Harare is a preferred destination for cross-border traders. It is demonstrated that Harare is assuming a growing role in the network of cities in Southern Africa (and beyond) which are connected through the mobilities and activities of informal cross-border traders.Two distinct sub-groups are differentiated within Harare’s economy of international informal business tourism These are cross-border traders from other countries in sub-Saharan Africa who travel to Harare and Zimbabwean cross-border traders who visit Harare either to buy goods for resale in other countries in the region of Southern Africa or to sell in Harare goods that are purchased in neighbouring countries, mainly from South Africa.

The role of informal settlements in human development remains contested in urban studies literature. For instance, some existing studies view urban informal settlements as hotspots of social unrest, squalor and precarious residential environments (poverty traps); while others perceive them as places where the poor become resourceful, ingenious, and develop necessary skills to navigate urban life (pathways out of poverty). The absence of systematic evidence on the nexus between informal settlements and human progress hinder sound urban policy practices. This paper examines the role of informal settlements in human development focusing on Hopley, Hatcliffe Extension and Epworth Ward 7– Harare’s three largest informal settlements. The study combines surveys, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with selected residents from the three neighborhoods. The study reveals that despite feeling ‘trapped’ in conditions of precarious, overcrowded, and insecure housing, coupled with discursive territorial stigmatization, some informal settlement residents are hopeful that their settlements will eventually improve. The ambivalence of Harare’s urban policy toward informal settlements must be replaced by a more positive approach to improve the livelihoods of people living in these neighborhoods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

African city governments have generally been harsh on the informal sector. Informal traders are considered a nuisance and unworthy of government support and are subjected to severe regulations and police harassment. The paper frames this anti-informal-sector approach in Harare, Zimbabwe, as sovereign power and the informal traders' resistance as counterpower (after Foucault). We use the sustainable livelihoods approach (SLA. to analyze their response to sovereign power. Our interviews with 50 informal street traders and 20 key informants revealed that this counterpower takes the form of good business practices, building on urban–rural linkages and disobeying the current bylaws. The traders also actively avoid damage from police raids by being mobile, not displaying all their goods, setting out goods on a sheet for quick removal when threatened, storing goods elsewhere, and paying bribes for information about police activity. Our findings contradict the view of the informal sector traders as helpless victims of government brutality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zimbabwe’s unending socioeconomic crisis has led to the flooding of informal street vendors in its urban areas, a development that has led to incessant clashes between the street vendors and the local authorities. Literature has shown that street vending is a global phenomenon and its problems could be addressed through best practices of inclusivity. This study examined the situation of informal street vendors in Harare in the light of social inclusion. It also made use of insights from Pope Francis regarding World Popular Movements. Data were collected through focus group discussions comprising six informal street vendors operating in Harare as its participants. Findings revealed that informal street vendors in Harare faced many structural challenges, one of which included operating in contested spaces characterised by violent evictions from vending sites, bribery and power struggles. Results also showed that street vendors lacked access to bank loans, information, and even the power to influence policies which directly affected them. Based on these findings, it was argued that the informal street vendors were socially excluded and needed to be integrated into the economic fabric of the urban society. This social inclusion process was considered as only possible if local authorities adopted an inclusive approach to policymaking. This would entail involving the street vendors when crafting policies that directly affect them. It was recommended that Harare City Council regularises street vending, aligns its by-laws to the National Constitution, and that it also formulates inclusive policies. Contribution: The article makes a contribution towards the promotion of an inclusive society whereby everyone has equal access to social and economic opportunities.

The issue of same-sex relationships is complex in Zimbabwe because of the prevailing hostile legal provisions, and cultural and religious beliefs. While it is a criminal offence to practise same-sex relationships in Zimbabwe, the Constitution of Zimbabwe does not tolerate any discrimination against people. The debate on same-sex relationships has been on spotlight in Zimbabwe since 1995 when the late former President of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe, disparaged same-sex relationships as not only unnatural and un-African, but also unchristian. The practice of same-sex relationships has since remained politicised in Zimbabwe and elsewhere within the African region and those practising it have often been discriminated against by society. This article used a qualitative methodology to explore the religious experiences of Christians in same-sex relationships in Harare, using insights from the notion of ubuntu. Field data were gathered through social media from purposively selected respondents who were living in same-sex relationships. Findings revealed that these people felt discriminated against and unsafe in their own churches. Based on these findings, it is argued that despite their respective views on same-sex relationships, the African church should respect the dignity of the people involved in these relationships, and should also create safe spaces for them. Contribution: The article promotes sensitivity to the needs of minority groups in the society and encourages the provision of appropriate guidance on how to deal with the phenomenon of same-sex relationships.

Business tourism scholarship in the Global South is an undeveloped theme in international research. The phenomenon of business tourism in sub-Saharan Africa is urban-centred. This paper unpacks a critical dimension of business tourism in the African city, namely the activities of informal business tourists. Specifically, the focus is on Harare, Zimbabwe's capital city, as a destination for international informal business travellers. Using qualitative interviews with cross-border traders, new insight is provided on the reasons why Harare is a preferred destination for cross-border traders. It is demonstrated that Harare is assuming a growing role in the network of cities in Southern Africa (and beyond) which are connected through the mobilities and activities of informal cross-border traders. Two distinct sub-groups are differentiated within Harare's economy of international informal business tourism These are cross-border traders from other countries in sub-Saharan Africa who travel to Harare and Zimbabwean cross-border traders who visit Harare either to buy goods for resale in other countries in the region of Southern Africa or to sell in Harare goods that are purchased in neighbouring countries, mainly from South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of death in Zimbabwe. However, screening for prostate cancer is opportunistic as population-based screening is not available. Objectives: This study aimed to describe the knowledge, attitudes and practices of men living in Harare, Zimbabwe relating to prostate cancer. Method: A door-to-door survey took place in Mufakose, Harare. Each household was included, and men, 40 years and older, were convenience sampled until realisation of the calculated sample size of 269 (n = 269). A researcher-administered questionnaire collected the data, analysis was performed with descriptive statistics, and Chi-square tested statistically significant differences between the variables. Results: The majority of the sample (53.2; n = 143) was between 40 years old and 49 years old. Most (74.5%; n = 201) did not know what prostate cancer was, but the total sample (100%; n = 269) indicated that prostate cancer could lead to death. Only 50.6% (n = 136) were of the opinion that men should be screened; most (87.7%; n = 236) had never been screened. A Chi-square test of independence found a statistically significant difference between educational level and having had prostate cancer screening, χ2 (1) = 47.881, p 0.000. Conclusion: As confirmed by other studies, the respondents had limited knowledge of prostate cancer, but had a positive attitude towards the disease, as most were willing to go for screening. There had been only a small percentage screened previously, and less than half returned to learn the results. Contribution: The study emphasises the role of primary health clinics as it could be an ideal setting to teach men about prostate cancer and its screening, and provide screening services in Zimbabwe.

Naming is a common practice in all societies. In each society, naming practices follow patterns that are generally predictable within their respective and identifiable feature categories.Names come from different sources and are inspired by the lived experiences of their bestowers. Whilst some names have clear and easily traceable meanings owing to their semantically transparent morphology or syntax, other meanings are only accessible when one gleans through the histories behind the names. Such histories come from the name givers' epistemological systems. Thus, besides being forms of identity, different categories of names perform different functions. This paper is an analysis of inscriptions written on public transport vehicles, commonly known as kombis. We argue that these inscriptions are names. Hence, the article interrogates the functions of these names and tries to unearth the philosophies contained therein. The inscriptions were gathered from kombis plying their routes on the streets of Harare, Zimbabwe's capital city. Data relating to the origins of these names and their semantic, cultural, and social significance was collected from kombi owners and crews. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines residential satisfaction and the factors that influence it within the context of Harare's selected informal settlements (Hopley, Hatcliffe extension and Epworth ward 7). The study presents interesting findings from regression analysis; some of which challenge the dominant narratives that characterize deprived neighbourhoods as having low residential satisfaction. From the bivariate (OR = 1.600, p < 0.05) and multivariate (OR = 1.647, p < 0.05) analyses, residents with strong social networks have higher odds of being very satisfied with their residence compared to residents with weak social networks. Also, long-time residents (OR = 1.671, p < 0.01) were found to be very satisfied with their residence compared to newcomers. Additionally, respondents who agreed to receive help from local politicians have higher odds (OR = 1.851, p < 0.01) of very satisfied residential satisfaction compared to those who did not receive help from local politicians. Furthermore, place attachment is significantly associated with very satisfied residential satisfaction. Residents with high place attachment (OR = 1.535, p < 0.05) are more likely to be very satisfied with their residence compared to those with low place attachment. The implications of the findings for urban policy and practice are also highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Elemental lead (Pb) toxicity in children, irreversibly affects their growth and development. We assessed the prevalence of high blood Pb levels (BLL) in children living in a potentially high risk residential area and also assessed Pb levels in environmental specimens. Methods This cross sectional study measured blood lead levels (BLL) in 86children living in Mbare, a densely populated suburb in Harare, Zimbabwe, characterised by dwellings progressively constructed from 1907 through to the 1940s, before the ban of leaded paint. Study participants of both genders were under 6 years of age. Potential risk factors of Pb poisoning were assessed. Pb levels were also assessed in soil, water and paint chip specimens from the study area. Results The mean (standard deviation) BLL was 4.3 ± 0.75 g/dL. Twelve (13.95%) participants had BLL of > 5.0ug/dL. Our results showed no significant association between BLL and household income, participant behaviour/habits/activities, sources of drinking water, and the types of cookware used to prepare meals in their households. Conclusion Mean BLL observed in the current study were higher compared to those of children of similar age groups in the United States, suggesting that Pb contamination may be more ubiquitous in the Mbare flats area, potentially predisposing these children to impaired development.

The development of new master-planned cities is a popular approach to decongest major metropolitan areas in different African countries, including Zimbabwe. This paper is an exploratory analysis of Zimbabwe's New Capital City (NCC), being created roughly 20 kilometers outside Harare. Specifically, the paper analyzes the design of the NCC, the principles underpinning its production, the different rationalities used by policymakers for its legitimation, as well as the socioeconomic and spatial implications. Based on review of secondary literature, plans, and interviews with city planners and other professionals, the paper finds that the creation of Zimbabwe's NCC represents urban boosterism, an active promotion of a city through development of large-scale urban development schemes and creating a new image for the city. The production of the new city is also underpinned by neoliberal motivations and imported ideas of urban planning which disregard the local planning urban context, where poverty and informality are prevalent. The creation of new master-planned cities must therefore strive to address these contemporary urban challenges rather than exacerbating them. The paper contributes to scholarly debate on the production of new master-planned cities in Africa and the Global South more broadly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the COVID-19 pandemic's effect on the health of low-income urban communities in the global South has not been insignificant, the results of state responses carried out without full consideration of poverty consequences have been very serious. Vaccination, which supports both health and economic recovery, is one way people can reduce the risk of further exclusion. This field note, drawing on surveys from informal settlements in Harare, Kampala, Lilongwe and Mumbai between August and November 2021 by national affiliates of Slum Dwellers International (SDI), provides a snapshot of how global vaccine inequalities have played out across these cities. We find that access to local vaccine programmes is influenced by both global supply and existing local-level inequities; that a low or unreliable supply, among other factors, limits political will to invest in reaching already underserved communities; and that local context and the heterogeneity of communities are key to understanding low vaccine uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Elemental lead (Pb) toxicity in children, irreversibly affects their growth and development. We assessed the prevalence of high blood Pb levels (BLL) in children living in a potentially high risk residential area and also assessed Pb levels in environmental specimens. Methods: This cross sectional study measured blood lead levels (BLL) in 86children living in Mbare, a densely populated suburb in Harare, Zimbabwe, characterised by dwellings progressively constructed from 1907 through to the 1940s, before the ban of leaded paint. Study participants of both genders were under 6 years of age. Potential risk factors of Pb poisoning were assessed. Pb levels were also assessed in soil, water and paint chip specimens from the study area. Results: The mean (standard deviation) BLL was 4.3 ± 0.75 g/dL. Twelve (13.95%) participants had BLL of > 5.0ug/dL. Our results showed no significant association between BLL and household income, participant behaviour/habits/activities, sources of drinking water, and the types of cookware used to prepare meals in their households. Conclusion: Mean BLL observed in the current study were higher compared to those of children of similar age groups in the United States, suggesting that Pb contamination may be more ubiquitous in the Mbare flats area, potentially predisposing these children to impaired development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conducting primary data collection can be a fulfilling and interesting adventure producing significant learning experiences particularly for early career researchers. However, fieldwork can be marred with complex challenges and frustrations, especially if conducted in dynamic and politically sensitive environments and with highly vulnerable urban populations. This paper contributes to and advances academic scholarship on fieldwork experiences in the social sciences. Drawing from the first author's doctoral fieldwork experiences, we share our reflections on the application of the photovoice method in researching street traders in Harare, Zimbabwe. We engage with different issues that researchers could consider in the application of photovoice, especially with dynamic and marginalized urban populations like street traders. These include dealing with and managing complex and multiple ethical dilemmas, dealing with the content-quality conundrum, exploring 'missing' photographs and handling 'leftover' photographs, handling conflictual council-street trader relations, building rapport, and ensuring participant commitment, joint interpretation, and co-construction of meaning and methodological benefits of using photovoice with street traders. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first paper that reflects on the use of photovoice with street traders in Global South cities, and we hope that the insights presented here will be useful for future urban researchers working on similar topics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines changing attitudes to afternoon and evening meals during the Zimbabwean crisis between 1997 and 2020. It uses household food economics in Harare's high-density suburbs as an entry point into the historiography of the Zimbabwean crisis. By focusing on the management of household economics, the article analyses the affordability, typologies and naming of some meals or relishes that were eaten during the crisis period. It examines the vernacular concepts of tsaona meals that came to dominate afternoon and evening meals. It further analyses the ZANU(PF) government's authoritarian vegetarianism – in which it took a pseudo-decolonial stance as it attempted to re-teach Zimbabwean palates and bowels to consume traditional small grains and vegetables in the context of food shortages and the crisis. Overall, the article provides a sensorial history of meals in Harare's high-density suburbs during the Zimbabwean crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study discusses the human security costs and benefits generated by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic-induced state monopoly on the urban public transport system in Zimbabwe through the Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) since March 2020. Using empirical evidence from Harare, it argues that the ZUPCO initiative had far-reaching safety and security implications on urban residents' lives during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that though the ZUPCO initiative mainly benefited commuters through affordable fares, it had many human security costs. The costs included reduced safety and decreased and unreliable services, which exposed the commuting public to the risk of contracting COVID-19 and other security challenges. The state monopoly on urban transport exacerbated the social and economic impact of COVID-19, promoted inequalities, police corruption and urban residents' use of informal transport services, which were unsafe and costly. The study concludes that the Zimbabwean government lacks the capacity to provide services in the urban transport sector, akin to nearly every sector in the country. As a stop-gap measure, the government is encouraged to regulate and allow private players to complement its efforts for the benefit, convenience, security, and safety of commuters until it develops an efficient urban public transport system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Managing household solid waste (HSW) has gone beyond what the Harare local government can handle. Inadequate knowledge of the interactions existing between issues that affect the efficient running of waste management systems is one of the major hindrances in waste management planning in developing countries like Zimbabwe. The complexity of the waste management system for a given municipal area needs to be identified and understood to generate appropriate and efficient waste management strategies. Network analysis (NA) is a methodology extensively used in research to help reveal a comprehensive picture of the relationships and factors related to a particular phenomenon. The methodology reduces the intricacy of large systems such as waste management to smaller and more understandable structures. In this study, NA, which was done mainly using the R software environment, showed a result of 1.5% for network density, thus signifying that for Harare, waste management strategies need to be 'seeded' in various parts of the system. The Pareto principle and the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) concept were applied to suggest the issues to prioritize and generate strategies that could potentially affect significant change to the city's waste management system. The key issues identified, in their order of importance, are an increase in uncollected waste, low waste collection efficiency, increase in illegal waste dumping, the deteriorating country's economy, reduced municipal financial capacity, reduced municipal workforce capacity, inadequate or unreliable waste data, increase in waste volume, increase in the number of street vendors, no waste planning and monitoring unit, no engineered landfills in the city, increase in waste collection pressure, low waste collection frequency, increase in the unemployment rate, reduced municipal technical capacity, few waste collection vehicles, limited vehicles maintenance, distinct socio-economic classes, high vehicles breakdown, and increase in population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social media, with its generally reported adverse effects, has become prevalent in daily lives of young people in Zimbabwe. The aim of this article is to outline the effects of social media on youth behaviour in Zimbabwe, as described by the Ruwa youths in Harare. The article reports the results of survey of youth conducted through interviews and questionnaires; and, it finds that youth in Ruwa are increasingly using social media in their daily lives, especially for purposes of entertainment and communication, and they believe that it has positive effects in their lives. It recommends that youth making use of social media need to understand the intent and to remain informed. Furthermore, it recommends that youth need to ensure data protection, use social media platforms productively and guard against negative habits associated with improved social connectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The post-colonial and post-apartheid cities of Johannesburg and Harare, a corollary of centuries of spatial construction characterised by various forms of segregation, are sites of continued spatial and socio-economic inequalities, where the most marginalised communities are on the receiving end of these inequalities. While democratic governments in South Africa and Zimbabwe have made significant inroads in the de-segregation of urban space, vestiges of their colonial and apartheid past remain deeply embedded in the geography. Attempts to fashion spatial transformation in cities have been anchored on gentrification, with "urban renewal" processes taking the form of hygienisation and the eviction of street vendors and the urban poor. This "rehabilitation" of post-colonial and post-apartheid urban space has resulted in the creation of enclaves for wealthier members of the population within African cities. This approach has a directly proportional relationship to the physical, economic, social and cultural displacement of vulnerable and marginalised communities. The aim of this study is to demonstrate how the systematic entrenchment of segregation and marginalisation gleaned in post-colonial urban landscapes challenges the idea of gentrified space as an antidote to the deterioration of urban space brought on by urbanisation and migration. Using critical social theory, this article contends that the concept of gentrification is rooted in the notion of space as a preserve of particular classes, inherently impeding on the right to the city for vulnerable groups. It demonstrates how urban renewal programmes in Harare and Johannesburg have reproduced spatial segregation that is not only alienating poor communities and rendering them impuissant, but also ostracising women. It concludes that integrated human settlements are a critical solution to the reproduction of transformed, inclusive and accessible urban space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Household solid waste (HSW) is the largest municipal solid waste (MSW) produced in Harare. This type of waste is poorly managed, driven by various factors. To inform future studies towards designing more informed solutions to HSW management in the city, this literature study was formulated. The review aims to uncover the causes of poor HSW management in the city. The systematic review methodology using NVIVO was used to develop the review. The results showed that the most reported causes of poor HSW management and waste management system inefficiencies in Harare are increase in population and population density, poor formal solid waste disposal, increase in waste volumes, informal waste disposal, low waste collection frequency and efficiency, municipal incapacitation, among others. Future studies can utilize these results to estimate the complexity of this phenomenon and thus propose appropriate solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of automated systems created tremendous opportunities for access promotion in archival institutions throughout the globe. Genealogical research at the National Archives of Zimbabwe (NAZ) has been boosted by technological access systems conveyed by the FamilySearch organisation. Public archivists in national archival institutions must adopt digital finding aids to facilitate effective and efficient retrieval mechanisms in this green revolution epoch. The transition from traditional retrieval tools, which include card catalogues, inventories and guides, to digital finding aids has provided greater opportunities for genealogists to search large databases for information. Genealogists or family historians are major users of the archival collection, and archival institutions should take advantage of best practices brought in by technology to create flawless access systems. The researcher used a qualitative case study methodology with an interpretivist perspective where the main focus of the research was on the head office of the NAZ in Harare. Interviews, document analysis and observations were used as the major data collecting tools. The results show the NAZ automated a few classes of genealogical records, including deceased estate records, and is yet to automate immigration, chieftainship and census returns records, which are also crucial in family history research. The study recommends the adoption of the best of both worlds, which involves automation and digitisation of all family history records to facilitate effective and efficient service delivery to genealogists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing from ethnographic research, incorporating informal conversations, semi-structured interviews and a focus group discussion, the paper explores the subjective meanings and construction of the "lesbian" identity in a "hostile" environment among selected same-sex attracted women in Harare. While the globally circulating identity labels are loaded with historical baggage which can be limiting or confusing in non-western contexts, most of the study participants related to some of the labels that are prominent in the present-day, western-inspired global discourse on same-sex relations. Self-styling and the quest to exhibit masculine decorum was a central aspect in the narratives of most "butch" identifying women. For most butch identifying women being lesbian was closely interwoven with considerations about one's gendered self. However not all participants were comfortable with the circulating identity labels as they found them restrictive and loaded. While subjective preferences of the participants demonstrate complexity in how "lesbianism" is locally constructed and experienced, the lesbian identity is certainly not obsolete in Harare among same-sex attracted women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The last decade in Zimbabwe has witnessed the unfolding of a myriad of economic episodes characterised by different forms of money. The year 2009 saw Zimbabwe abolishing its Zimbabwean dollar at the zenith of its worldrecord hyperinflation. This was followed by the adoption of the multicurrency regime, which was, however, dominated by the United States Dollar (US Dollar). The multicurrency adoption managed to extinguish inflation, and this also saw the flourishing of the informal sector in response to improved disposable income for the people. Subsequent to that, there have been many changes in the monetary landscape, such as the shortages of US dollars due to liquidity problems; a significant reduction in the circulation of US dollar banknotes; the collapse of the mobile money platforms in response to the liquidity challenges; the emergence of a multi-layered pricing system; as well as the recently promulgated SI 142 that saw the adoption of the mono-currency punctuated by the return of the Zimbabwean dollar. Urban informal traders heavily rely on the exchange of money in its different forms; hence, any changes on the monetary side tend to affect them. The ability of informal traders to restock is negatively affected by an unstable environment. This study, therefore, seeks to document how informal traders have been responding to the many changes outlined in this overview that has characterised the Zimbabwean economic environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores how geographical location contributes to the social exclusion of communities on the fringes of the city. It uses a case study of Southlea Park, a low-income settlement on the southern periphery of Harare in Zimbabwe, to highlight the conditions contributing to lack of adequate transport, and thus, creating barriers to mobility. It draws data from a 6-month ethnographic study to show how lack of adequate transport and road infrastructure and the high costs of commuting have contributed to the social exclusion of residents, whose access to opportunities outside the community has been severely constrained. Based on these results, it argues that geographical location is a major factor contributing to transport disadvantages of communities on the periphery of Harare, and indeed, other cities in Zimbabwe, and thus, perpetuates their exclusion from the broader economy. It concludes by alluding to the policy implications of the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyses challenges associated with management of PET beverages bottle waste in Harare Urban, Zimbabwe. Quantitative data collection instruments used included structured questionnaires and geo-spatial data collection. Qualitative data instruments used included direct observations, open-ended questions, structured interviews (audio and videos) as well as field notes. Fundamental to the quantitative data collection process was the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Earth Observation Tools. Near-real time geo-spatial data was collected using Mobile Data Collector (Open Data Kit-ODK), was analysed (using ArcView GIS, QGIS, SPSS and MS Excel) and then presented for all the attributes associated with this particular research study. Geo-referenced data was collected from a total of 328 outlets and 299 consumers and households. Challenges associated with PET waste management in Harare include inadequate collection infrastructure, consumer behaviour, volatility of oil and PET global markets and the lack of a robust PET waste policy that addresses these challenges. Environmental and health hazards emanating from these challenges included reduced aesthetic value, blockage of drainage systems, toxic gas emissions from PET waste burning, reduced productive land, leaching of hazardous substances, high incidence of malaria and cholera and ingestion by wildlife. In order to address the generation and distribution of PET waste, the primary audiences are manufacturers of beverages packaged in PET Bottle. The manufacturers need to focus on bottle light weighting. This means that less resin are used to manufacture the same bottle and this ultimately reduces the amount of PET waste generated by weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Street trading, a highly contentious phenomenon in many Global South cities, represents an interplay of power, resistance, and urban governance. In this paper, we use Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to interrogate how street traders are portrayed in media and institutional discourses, providing insights into the discursive construction of urban space in Harare, Zimbabwe. Methodologically, the study draws on a dataset consisting of interviews with urban practitioners, and policymakers, as well as an analysis of media representations. The debate related to urban space and street trading in Harare has been largely one-sided for many years, dominated by a top-down discourse of power that pathologizes, marginalizes and stigmatizes street traders as "agents of urban disorder, diseases and pollution", "economic parasites" and "criminals". The success of these hegemonic discourses has justified and legitimized regressive policies of displacement, eviction, and penalization, thereby undermining street traders' contributions to the urban economy and livelihoods. Ultimately, this study contributes to the growing body of research on street trading in Global South cities, shedding light on the power structures and ideological underpinnings within the urban discourse. The findings of this study aim to inform more inclusive urban governance practices that acknowledge the rights of marginalized groups. • Uses Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to examine how street traders are portrayed in media and institutional discourses in Harare, Zimbabwe. • The debate related to urban space and street trading in Harare has been largely one-sided for many years, dominated hegemonic discourses that negatively represent street traders as a disruptive urban 'nuisance', 'criminals', 'economic parasites' and agents of 'diseases and pollution'. • These hegemonic discourses have been used to justify aggressive and authoritarian spatial governance, thereby undermining street traders' contributions to the urban economy. • Contributes to the growing body of research on cities, space and power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transformative adaptation (TA) places emphasis on changing the underlying causes of climate risk. Little is known about how TA can be achieved in practice in southern African cities. This paper reports on a set of criteria, derived from the literature and transdisciplinary engagements, for taking TA from theory into practice. These are: fundamental/sustainable changes in thinking and doing; inclusivity; challenging power asymmetries; demonstrability; responsive and flexible; and holistic, complex systems thinking. These criteria were explored through five water-related projects in Durban (South Africa) and Harare (Zimbabwe), which were identified by actors as having transformative potential to reduce urban climate risks. The study suggests that trade-offs might need to be made between several of these criteria, with strong synergies between others. Challenging power asymmetries is important in southern African cities where adaptation should change the structures of society that give rise to highly differential climate vulnerabilities. Challenging power structures largely requires true inclusivity and an equal stake in shaping decisions as opposed to tokenistic participation. While TA is needed in southern African cities, the complexity of these contexts and the scale of TA ambition introduces practical challenges when compared with incremental adaptation, i.e. small changes to existing practices to reduce climate impacts within the current development paradigm. Given such practical limitations, the paper concludes that TA in southern African cities might pragmatically be attempted as part of a process of ongoing learning to identify opportunities for gradual restructuring and expanding, in scale and ambition towards transformation. • Incremental adaptation achieves demonstrable results quickly. • Transformative adaptation needs to expand activities gradually in scope and scale. • Trade-offs exist at points along the incremental-transformative continuum. • Greater inclusivity in transformative adaptation introduces governance challenges. • Going beyond incremental adaptation requires challenging power asymmetries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In developing countries, people living in informal settlements are subjected to different forms of coercive control such as threats of evictions, exclusion, blocked access to urban services and other types of structural violence. These coercive measures are legitimised through the discursive branding of informal settlements as 'unplanned', 'disorderly' and 'dangerous' neighbourhoods. This paper examines how people living in these denigrated neighbourhoods engage with and resist this territorial stigmatisation. It uses data from key informant interviews (KIIs) with urban elites, in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) with residents of Harare's informal settlements. Our analysis reveals that while some informal settlement residents have internalised stigmatising discourses, others resist them through constructing counternarratives that seek to portray their settlements as 'good places for the urban poor', thereby creating a positive image of their neighbourhoods in the context of extreme spatial and socio-economic marginalisation. These place-based narratives are rooted in the shared experiences with informality and associational life in a city where such residents are needed yet unwanted. We conclude that while informal settlement residents are aware of their precarity and tenure insecurities, these counternarratives build strong solidarities to resist state-sponsored evictions, arbitrary relocations and other forms of structural violence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial configuration of vegetation patches in the landscape has implications for the provision of ecosystem services, human adaptation to climate change, enhancement, or mitigation of urban heat island. Until recently, the effect of spatial configuration of vegetation to enhance or mitigate urban heat island has received little consideration in urban thermal assessments. This study examines the impact of spatial configuration of vegetation patches on urban thermal warming and cooling in Harare metropolitan city, Zimbabwe. The study used Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER), Landsat and Sentinel 2 data acquired between 1994 and 2017 to derive detailed information on vegetation patches, landscape metrics, and land surface temperature LST(°C). The spatial configuration of urban vegetation patterns was analyzed using landscape metrics in Fragstats program. Getis Ord Gi* as a Local Indicator of Spatial Association (LISA) was used to characterize the spatial clustering and dispersion of urban vegetation patches. Results of the Getis Ord Gi* showed that clustered vegetation lowers surface temperatures more effectively than dispersed and fragmented patterns of vegetation. The size, density, shape complexity, and cohesion of vegetation patches conferred different levels of cooling but Patch Cohesion Index had the strongest negative relationship with LST(°C) at three spatial resolutions of 10 m (Sentinel 2), 15 m (ASTER) and 30 m (Landsat 8). The Spatial Lag Regression model performed better than the Ordinary Least Squares regression analysis in exploring the relationship between LST(°C) and landscape metrics. Specifically, the Spatial Lag Regression model showed higher R2 values and log likelihood, lower Schwarz criteria, and Akaike information criterion, and reduced spatial autocorrelations. The overall information provides important insights into the provision of larger, connected, and less fragmented urban vegetation patches to derive maximum and higher cooling effects which is critical for urban planning and design approaches for mitigating increasing surface temperatures in cities.