This research, published in Discover Cities, delves into the political economy of administrative responses to this phenomenon, exploring how power dynamics, vested interests, and historical legacies shape the lives of those living on the margins of the city.
The study reveals that the state’s approach to informal housing is often characterized by a lack of transparency and accountability, leading to arbitrary evictions, forced displacements, and a constant state of insecurity for residents. The research also highlights the role of patronage networks and clientelism in shaping the allocation of land and the provision of services, further marginalizing those who lack access to these networks.
Despite these challenges, the research also documents the resilience and agency of informal housing residents, who engage in various forms of resistance and negotiation to secure their land and improve their living conditions. The study concludes with a call for a more inclusive and rights-based approach to urban planning and land management, one that recognizes the contributions of informal housing residents to the city’s economy and society.
The research was inspired by the author’s personal experiences and observations of the challenges faced by informal housing residents in Sheger City. The author conducted extensive fieldwork, including interviews, focus groups, and participant observations, to gain a deep understanding of the perspectives and experiences of those affected by informal housing and land tenure insecurity.
The research is a significant contribution to the literature on urban studies, political economy, and land tenure. It provides important insights into the challenges and opportunities for achieving sustainable and equitable urban development in Ethiopia and beyond.
Efa Tadesse Debele is a researcher with a focus on urban studies, land tenure, and political economy. Efa Tadesse Debele is also a member of the Springer Nature Research Communities, where Efa Tadesse Debele discusses and discovers new ideas, expands their network, and shares the challenges and successes of their work.