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This analysis examines the state of South African cities two decades post-democracy, focusing on continuity and change.

May 25, 2026Open Access

Continuity, change and conflict in South African cities

Key Points

This analysis examines the state of South African cities two decades post-democracy, focusing on continuity and change.
Evaluated socio-economic and spatial policies in South African cities over twenty years.
Identified achievements and challenges in urban development.
Analyzed factors influencing urban transformation in a global context.
Notable achievements in urban policies, reflecting some successful transformation efforts.
Stalled progress in addressing income inequality and spatial disparities.
Complex institutional dynamics hinder effective urban development strategies.

Abstract

Twenty years after domocracy, there is evidence of both continuity and change in the way South African cities have developed. The bold mandate of the metros was to promote socio-economic and spatial transformation, but circumstances have been difficult following the country's re-entry into a more competitive global economy, its skewed income distribution, the complexity of institutional consolidation and transformation, and vested interests in land, property and the economy. There have been notable achievements in some respects, but progress has stalled in others.

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Human Sciences Research Council

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Continuity, change and conflict in South African cities

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