IMPACTS OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT PRESSURE ON COASTAL LOCAL COMMUNITIES IN TANZANIA

Abstract

The study examined the socio-economic and cultural impacts of urban development pressure
on coastal local communities in Tanzania, in line with the implementation of Human Rights
and the National Land and Human Settlement Development Policy, and suggests measures to
manage or prevent the adverse impacts and enhance beneficial impacts. Social Impact
Assessment principles were employed to study the impacts of urban development pressure on
Kaole, Ununio and Kilwa-Masoko. Qualitative data from 12 informants, 6 Focus Groups,
and quantitative data from 150 heads of household and their spouses were collected using a
semi-structured questionnaire. Data was analysed using the SPSS computer software. It was
found out that impacts included low incomes, insecurity over land, food insecurity, poor
access to social services, and vulnerability to poverty. Apart from Kilwa-Masoko, there were
no programmes to avoid negative impacts of urban development. It is recommended that land
allocation processes should properly implement Human Rights and the National Land and
Human Settlement Development Policy.