THE ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION OF EZULWINI TOWN: A Case Study in Strategic Investment and Development

Mhlalisi Gavu Mndzebele; Saidi Finzi; Trynos Gumbo

doi:10.4324/9781003588801-12

THE ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION OF EZULWINI TOWN: A Case Study in Strategic Investment and Development

Urban and Regional Planning

University of Johannesburg

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding › Chapter › peer-review

Abstract

Small and medium-sized cities (SMCs) play a crucial role in the overall development of regions. SMCs can discourage excessive migration to large cities, promoting a more balanced population distribution. This chapter probes into the economic transformation of Ezulwini, a secondary city in Eswatini that has evolved from a predominantly tourist-driven town to a thriving commercial hub. Against the backdrop of urbanization, globalization, and industrialization, smaller cities are emerging as essential nodes of economic activity, complementing the growth of larger urban centers. However, rapid growth has posed significant challenges, including increased pressure on infrastructure, inadequate public services, and shortages in affordable housing. This chapter combines bibliometric and land-cover changes analysis methods of data collection to examine Ezulwini as a case study to draw valuable lessons on resilience for other smaller cities and policymakers seeking to harness the opportunities of economic transformation through strategic planning, inclusive development, and regional collaboration.

Original language	English
Title of host publication	Routledge Handbook of Resilient Urban Planning for Small and Medium-Sized Cities
Publisher	Taylor and Francis
Pages	159-175
Number of pages	17
ISBN (Electronic)	9781040423745
ISBN (Print)	9781032948874
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003588801-12
Publication status	Published - 1 Jan 2025

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

SDG 9 Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities
SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities

ASJC Scopus subject areas

General Arts and Humanities
General Social Sciences
General Medicine
General Environmental Science
General Energy
General Engineering

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10.4324/9781003588801-12

Cite this

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THE ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION OF EZULWINI TOWN: A Case Study in Strategic Investment and Development

Abstract

UN SDGs

ASJC Scopus subject areas

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