Walkability in Zimbabwean Neighborhoods

Fallstudie aus dem Jahr 2017 im Fachbereich Geowissenschaften / Geographie - Bevölkerungsgeographie, Stadt- u. Raumplanung, , Sprache: Deutsch, Abstract: The main aim of the study is to investigate the level of walkability of Zimbabwean neighborhoods based on the availability of mixed land uses, safety and aesthetics in Rhodene, Masvingo. Data collection was done through observations, expert based scores from key informants and experiences from residents. The major findings showed that Rhodene was not a walkable neighborhood based on the lack of amenities, safety and aesthetics. In conclusion, the researcher proposed a shift from auto-centric policies to sustainable policies of creating walkable neighborhoods.

Climate change has become a major problem affecting urban environments. The transport sector is a major contributor of climate change through the release of green gases by automobiles. In addressing these issues city planners are advocating for sustainable cities that contain elements of a walkable neighborhood walking. However, the level of walkability in neighborhoods of developing counties remains unclear because of limited knowledge.