An Examination of Challenges for Property Owners and Occupants in Decaying Urban Cores - A Case Study of Harare, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Urban decay is a significant problem in major cities worldwide, and Harare, Zimbabwe, is no exception. The central business district (CBD) of Harare has experienced a significant decline in building quality, functionality, and visual attractiveness due to poor economic management, inadequate maintenance, and urban planning failures. This study examines the challenges faced by property owners and occupants in the decaying urban core of Harare. A mixed-method design was employed, involving a survey of 131 respondents and in-depth interviews with key stakeholders. The findings reveal that the top challenges identified by respondents include poor service delivery (mean = 4.40), lack of coordinated planning for building rehabilitation (mean = 4.34), lack of infrastructure development funding (mean = 4.11), overcrowding (mean = 4.04), and unemployment (mean = 4.02). Interview respondents confirmed these findings, emphasising broken infrastructure, poor planning, and insufficient political will. The study aligns with previous research on inner-city challenges, highlighting issues such as poor housing, unemployment, financing infrastructure development, and a lack of coordinated building rehabilitation. The results demonstrate the need for local government to prioritise improvements in service delivery, particularly in waste management, sanitation, and public safety. Additionally, access to financial and technical expertise is crucial for successfully implementing regeneration strategies. The study concludes that addressing the challenges in Harare's CBD requires a holistic, stakeholder-driven approach that reconciles short-term concerns with long-term sustainability targets.

Keywords: Challenges, Urban Decay, Inner-city Renewal, Commercial Property, Property Stakeholders

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007957