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 | |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 2025 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Arts and Humanities
- General Social Sciences
- General Medicine
- General Environmental Science
- General Energy
- General Engineering