The built environment is a reflection of political decisions. The officials you elect shape the environment around you. So, what happens if people don’t participate in the voting process?
In this episode, we delve into the critical intersection of civic action and urban development with our insightful guest, Dafe Oputu. We’ll explore the urban landscapes of Accra, Ghana; Cotonou, Benin; and Lagos, Nigeria, examining how trust and accountability in municipal governance shape these cities. We’ll discuss different cities' strategies to encourage public participation and civic action, and why voting is crucial for building better cities. Together we also unpack Africa's obsession with megacities, like Akon City and Eko Atlantic (and how to avoid creating ghost cities).
Key insights from the episode include:
- The importance of public participation and voting in shaping urban environments
- How colonial legacies continue to influence municipal governance structures today, presenting both opportunities and challenges.
- The strategies different cities are using to encourage public participation and civic action
- The implications of governance and public participation when attempting to build cities from scratch
- The concept of Special Economic Zones (SEZ) and their impact within the African context
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Guest: Dafe Oputu
Dafe Oputu is a PhD candidate at the University of Toronto's Department of Political Science, specialising in democratisation and urban politics in West Africa. He is also the digital media coordinator for the Elite Africa Project, a research project highlighting African agency and leadership.
Timestamps
- Forthcoming
Show Notes
- Akon City
- Diamniado City
- Eko Atlantic
- Elite Africa Project
- Episode 21: How the Charter Cities Institute Promotes Inclusive and Adaptable Planning for Sustainable New Cities
- New Cairo
- The Blank Slate Fantasy: The Promise and Pitfalls of International Charter Cities
- Zombiescapes Africa's Megacity Addiction
Acknowledgements
Sponsorships
This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning.
Support
- Music Producer: Imany Lambropoulos
- Podcast Host and Graphic Designer: Alexandra Lambropoulos
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