Contested urban spaces in unplanned urbanization: Wetlands under siege

Abstract urbanization is threatening wetlands that provide multiple ecosystem services essential for urban functionality across African cities. With large urban agglomerations characterized by rapid and uncontrolled urban development, wetlands in African cities are under intense pressure of extinction. Yet, research exploring their urban planning implications, spatial extent and management regimes in Africa remains limited. Using urban ecology theory as a theoretical framework and Kumasi, the second largest city in Ghana, as a case study, this paper explores: (i) the state of wetlands in Kumasi via spatiotemporal analysis; (ii) local perceptions and attitudes towards the use and management of wetlands; and (iii) urban planning responses to wetland use and management. Using spatial data and qualitative research methods (e.g., community interviews, institutional consultations and document review), findings indicate increasing depletion and gradual extinction of wetlands in Kumasi due to conversion of wetlands into residential and other uses. Fundamentally, alterations in the use of wetlands have led to increased flood events in the city. Planning interventions (e.g., embankment of wetlands, creating channels for easy flow of river) have largely failed due to limited local engagement, existence of poorly implemented land tenure system in the city, and the powerlessness of the urban planning institutions, in terms of logistics, personnel and authority. Recommendations to improve upon the situation are proffered.