Neglecting informality? – Rethinking planning in sub-Saharan African cities

Public spaces in global South cities are being redeveloped, often displacing informal workers and leading to conflicts over access. In sub-Saharan African cities, land is often collectively owned by ethnic communities under customary laws, creating a complex governance system. This article examines the use of public spaces by informal workers in urban Africa, highlighting their negotiation for access through plural institutions. Using case studies from Ghana, our findings reveal the ambivalent relationship between planning and customary power, impacting urban development. The article suggests that integrating customary realities into planning could lead to more inclusive and effective urban development.