INSTITUTE OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING (IRDP)
DEPATMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
COURSE: BACHELOR DEGREE IN URBAN AND REGIONAL PLANNING.
MODULE NAME: URBAN DESIGNING STUDIO
MODULE CODE: UPU07501
INSTRUCTOR NAME: DR. HELENE FRANCIS & MR. ROGASIAN SIMON
TASK: GROUP ASSAGMENT
GROUP NO; 06
NO STUDENTS NAMES REGISTRATION SIGNATURE
NUMBERS
1 ROSEMERY MAPINDUZI IRDP/ BDURP/23/0064
2 CHARLES MAPINDUZI IRDP/ BDURP/23/0158
3 HAMZA MANYAMA IRDP/ BDURP/23/0120
4 MIRIAM JAPHET IRDP/ BDURP/23/0095
5 MENRICK LUVANDA IRDP/ BDURP/23/0079
6 JUSTINE ADREA IRDP/ BDURP/23/0061
7 ADAM NGONYANI IRDP/ BDURP/23/0156
8 HAJI LUKUTU IRDP/ BDURP/23/0096
9 RAHMA NANGOMWA IRDP/BDURP/23/0088
10 REHEMA MTUMBELA IRDP/BDURP/23/0144
11 BILIHUDA MSANGI IRDP/BDURP/23/0094
Question:
[Link] are the essence of urban renewal/urban redevelopment?
[Link] are the procedures required for urban renewal/redevelopment?
[Link] do you think are the importance of urban redevelopment?
[Link] are stakeholders in urban redevelopment/renewal?
SUBMISSION DATE: 22/12/2025
Urban redevelopment, refers to the comprehensive and planned process of revitalizing and
restructuring existing urban areas that are often characterized by blight, decay, or
underutilization. The "Guideline and Standard for Preparation and Implementation of Urban
Planning Scheme in Tanzania 2007" defines urban redevelopment as a process aimed at improving
the physical, social, and economic conditions of existing urban areas that are considered to be in a
state of decline or disuse. This definition emphasizes the strategic and systematic approach
required to address issues such as inadequate infrastructure, substandard housing, environmental
degradation, and economic stagnation within urban settings. The guideline further elaborates that
urban redevelopment schemes should be prepared and implemented with a focus on sustainable
development, community participation, and the integration of various land uses to create vibrant
and functional urban environments.
Urban renewal refers to a planned set of activities aimed at upgrading and revitalizing distressed
or decaying neighborhoods and suburbs, primarily addressing the physical aspects of urban
deterioration. An example of urban renewal efforts in Tanzania is the planned Kigamboni project
in Dar es Salaam. Academic literature, such as the thesis "Urban Renewal Policy on Housing
Conditions in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania" by Lekamere Kiwara, further explores these policies and
their impact on housing conditions in the region. This can involve tackling issues such as
substandard housing, inadequate physical infrastructure like water and sanitation services, and
insufficient community amenities such as sports and recreational facilities. Historically, urban
renewal emerged as an alternative to "slum clearance," a policy that involved demolishing
dilapidated housing and relocating residents. In Tanzania, urban planning practices have
undergone significant ideological shifts from colonial to post-colonial eras, influencing urban
renewal efforts. However, the non-implementation of both master plans and strategic plans has
often left layout plans as the primary tool for spatial planning and decision-making in Tanzania.
The essence of urban redevelopment can be distilled into seven key points, each with examples
and referencing the "Guidelines and Standards for Preparation and Implementation of Urban
Planning Schemes in Tanzania, 2007" (hereafter referred to as the Guidelines).
The following are the essence of urban renewal or urban redevelopment.
Addressing Urban Blight and Deterioration. Urban redevelopment fundamentally seeks to
combat areas characterized by physical decay, dilapidated buildings, inadequate infrastructure, and
environmental degradation. This involves transforming neglected spaces into vibrant, functional
areas. For instance, the redevelopment of the Kariakoo Market area in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania,
aimed at replacing aging and informal market structures with modern, organized facilities to
improve sanitation, safety, and economic efficiency. The Guidelines emphasize the ‘need for
urban planning schemes to identify and address areas of urban blight and deterioration, proposing
strategies for their rehabilitation and regeneration’.
Figure [Link] kariakoo in 2006 up to 2024(Source; journal)
Improving Infrastructure and Services. A core component of redevelopment is the
upgrade and expansion of essential urban infrastructure, including roads, water supply,
sewerage systems, electricity, and public transportation, as well as social services like
schools and healthcare facilities. Example: The Mbezi Luis Bus Terminal project in Dar es
Salaam involved not only the construction of a new terminal but also the improvement of
access roads and associated public utilities to support increased traffic and passenger flow.
The Guidelines state that urban planning schemes should ‘ensure the provision of adequate
and efficient infrastructure and public services to support planned urban development and
redevelopment initiatives.
Figure [Link] showing the development of infrastructure (2016-2024)
Enhancing Economic Vitality and Opportunity. Urban redevelopment aims to stimulate
economic growth by attracting new businesses, creating employment opportunities, and fostering
a more conducive environment for commercial activities. This often involves creating mixed-use
developments and promoting local entrepreneurship. The development of special economic zones
or industrial parks within urban areas, such as those proposed in the Dar es Salaam Master Plan,
are designed to attract investment and create jobs, thereby boosting the local economy. The
Guidelines highlight the importance of "promoting economic development and diversification
through strategic land use planning and the creation of an enabling environment for investment
and job creation."
Figure [Link] variability
Promoting Social Equity and Inclusion. Redevelopment efforts should strive to create inclusive
urban environments that benefit all residents, regardless of socio-economic status. This includes
providing affordable housing, improving access to public spaces, and ensuring community
participation in planning processes. Projects involving the upgrading of informal settlements
(slums), such as those undertaken in various parts of Dar es Salaam with support from
organizations like UN-Habitat, aim to improve living conditions, tenure security, and access to
basic services for marginalized communities. The Guidelines mandate that urban planning
schemes should "address issues of social equity, ensuring equitable access to land, housing, and
basic services for all segments of the population, and promoting community participation in
planning decisions."
Fostering Sustainable Urban Development. Modern urban redevelopment integrates principles
of sustainability, focusing on environmental protection, resource efficiency, and resilience to
climate change. This includes promoting green building practices, public transport, and green
spaces. Example: The incorporation of green infrastructure and sustainable drainage systems in
new urban developments, as seen in some proposed projects in Arusha, aims to mitigate
environmental impact and enhance urban resilience. Citation: The Guidelines emphasize the need
for urban planning schemes to "integrate principles of sustainable development, including
environmental protection, resource conservation, and climate change adaptation and mitigation
strategies."
Figure [Link] of sustainable development
Optimizing Land Use and Urban Form. Redevelopment often involves re-evaluating and
optimizing land use patterns to create more efficient, compact, and aesthetically pleasing urban
forms. This can include increasing density in appropriate areas, creating mixed-use zones, and
improving urban design. For example, the re-planning of central business districts (CBDs) in cities
like Mwanza, aiming to create a more organized and functional urban core with a mix of
commercial, residential, and public spaces, exemplifies land use optimization. The Guidelines
state that urban planning schemes should "optimize land use patterns to achieve efficient and
sustainable urban forms, promoting mixed-use developments and compact city growth.
Preserving Cultural Heritage and Identity. While modernizing, urban redevelopment should
also respect and integrate the existing cultural heritage and unique identity of a place. This involves
preserving historical buildings, cultural sites. The conservation and adaptive reuse of historical
buildings in Stone Town, Zanzibar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, demonstrates how
redevelopment can occur while preserving cultural heritage and enhancing its economic value
through tourism. The Guidelines stipulate that urban planning schemes should "identify, protect,
and enhance cultural heritage sites and features, integrating them into new developments to
maintain the unique identity and character of urban areas.
Figure [Link] heritage and historical
CONCLUSION; Urban renewal and redevelopment in Tanzania are experiencing a significant
boom, driven by government initiatives, substantial infrastructure investments, and a growing
interest from both local and foreign investors. Key infrastructure projects significantly contributing
to this boom include the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), with Phase 3 (Makutopora to Tabora) at
15% completion and Phase 5 (Isaka–Mwanza) at 63% completion by May 2025. The Kigongo–
Busisi Bridge, a 3.2 km structure across Lake Victoria, opened in mid-June 2025, drastically
reducing travel time. The Julius Nyerere Hydropower plant, with a capacity of 2,115 MW, was
completed in early 2025, boosting industrial development and land values in surrounding areas.
These projects, along with upgrades to ports and the Dar Rapid Transit (DART) system, have led
to property value increases of 20-50% in areas with direct infrastructure access. For instance,
properties in Kigamboni, Dar es Salaam, have appreciated by 35-45% for residential and 50-60%
for commercial plots since the Kigamboni Bridge completion in 2023. Properties along SGR routes
have seen 20-30% value increases in urban areas and 15-20% in smaller towns.
The following are the procedures required for urban renewal/ redevelopment as follows:
Identification of Area: This is the first step in an urban renewal or redevelopment project. It
involves selecting specific parts of a city or neighborhood that need improvement, redevelopment,
or revitalization. This step ensures that resources and efforts are focused where they are most
needed. Survey of deteriorated or underutilized urban zones, Assessment of housing quality,
infrastructure, safety, and services, Declaration as an “Urban Renewal Area” by authority. The
Technical Committee (TC) shall identify areas ripe for urban renewal by using (but not limited to)
the following criteria: Location of the site in relation to the city/municipal/town centre, change in
the key functions of the area from typical residential to commercial or institutional uses, expiry of
leases periods, number of application for change of use, densification of buildings and intensity of
activities in the area, degree of obsolescence of buildings and infrastructure, requirements of open
spaces, traffic congestion and increased environmental pollution.
Feasibility & Planning Technical and socio-economic feasibility study, Land-use analysis and
zoning review, Cost–benefit analysis, Environmental and social impact assessment. The TC shall
prepare a Town Planning drawing (Locational Map) indicating boundaries of areas ripe for urban
renewal. The TC shall present the Town Planning Drawing (Locational Map) to the Urban
Planning Committee for approval.
Stakeholder Consultation: This is the process of engaging and communicating with individuals,
groups, or organizations who have an interest in, are affected by, or can influence a project, policy,
or decision. The purpose is to gather input, understand concerns, and ensure that decisions are
more informed, transparent, and inclusive. Public notices and hearings, Consultation with
residents, landowners, and businesses, Feedback integration into the plan. The LGA shall
designate a Preparatory Authority for the renewal plan and identify key stakeholders and main
actors (Utility Agencies such as Electricity, Water, Sewerage and Sanitation, Roads and drainage;
representatives of the community (property owners and tenants); CBOs and NGOs, private
entrepreneurs, local authority leaders, faith-based organizations, influential people and political
institutions operating in the renewal area. The Preparation process shall involve the following
stages
Preparation of Renewal Plan: Master plan (land use, transport, housing, utilities), Resettlement
& rehabilitation plan (if displacement involved), Financing and implementation strategy, Phasing
and timelines. The LGA shall request the Minister to declare the area as ripe for Renewal and
publish the notice in the Government Gazette. The LGA shall mobilize resources for the
preparation of the renewal scheme.
Approval Process: Refer to the formal steps that a government or local authority takes to review,
authorize, and implement redevelopment or improvement projects in urban areas. This process
ensures that projects meet legal, environmental, social, and planning standards before they
proceed. Submission to urban development authority, Review by planning, environmental, and
legal bodies, Final approval by government/municipality. fter preparation of the urban renewal
scheme the CMT shall forward it to the planning authority for scrutiny, approval and adoption.
The scheme shall then be forwarded to the Director in the Ministry (MLHHSD) for scrutiny,
approval and adoption. The LGA shall present and discuss a draft detailed urban renewal scheme
with all stakeholders in the affected area and incorporate stakeholders’ views within three months
of making the scheme and submit it to the RAS who will submit the same to the Minister for
approval.
Land Acquisition & Resettlement (if applicable): Are processes those governments or
developers follow when they need private or community land for public projects, like roads,
railways, housing, or urban renewal. These processes ensure that land is obtained legally and that
affected people are treated fairly Legal acquisition or land pooling, Compensation and
rehabilitation measures, Temporary or permanent relocation.
Implementation, refers to the phase where the plans and designs for redeveloping or improving a
selected urban area are actually put into action. It’s the stage where ideas, policies, and approvals
are turned into real physical, social, and economic changes. Infrastructure upgrading, Housing
redevelopment, public amenities development, Private-sector participation (PPP models). The
LGA shall send copies of approved scheme to the Regional Secretariat and Planning Authority for
custody. The LGA shall present approved scheme to Ward/Mtaa Offices and avail copies for
display and custody of Mtaa/Ward Leaders. The LGA shall mobilize resources for effecting
cadastral survey and infrastructure provision including access to land and resettlement modalities.
The CMT shall convene a consultation meeting with actors and stakeholders to prepare action
plans, setting priorities, and institutional framework. The meeting should also agree on
implementation, operation and maintenance and any other modalities to include spelling out of
roles and responsibilities; prepare cost estimates, bankable projects and ensuring commitment of
everyone. The Sub-Committees shall prepare Action Plans with the view to operationalize the
general and broad redevelopment proposals.
Monitoring & Evaluation: Progress monitoring, Compliance checks, post-implementation
evaluation. Monitoring is the ongoing process of systematically collecting data and information to
track the progress of activities in a project or program. The TC and the Development Control Unit
in collaboration with Ward/Mtaa Offices shall monitor implementation of the approved detailed
schemes at regular intervals and document development on monthly bases. The TC and the
Development Control Unit shall prepare annual detailed plan implementation report indicating
achievements of targets, constraints and recommendations. The TC shall submit the report to the
Local Authority for forwarding to the Regional Secretariat and Director of Human Settlements
Development.
The following are the importance of urban redevelopment as follows:
Economic Revitalization: is the process of restoring and enhancing economic activity,
employment, and investment in declining urban areas to achieve sustainable urban development,
The goal is not just to rebuild physical spaces, but to restore jobs, income, business activity, and
long-term economic sustainability. long-term economic sustainability, attracts investment,
creates jobs, supports local businesses, and boosts tourism, driving economic growth. It is about
staying economically strong not just today, but for many years into the future.
Improved Quality of Life: Means the ability of people being able to live healthier, safer, more
comfortable, and more satisfying lives because their basic needs and well-being are better met.
Creates healthier environments with green spaces, better public transport, and energy-efficient
buildings, reducing pollution and encouraging physical activity.
Sustainable Development: Urban Renew/ Redevelopment enhance the ability of the present
generation to meet their own needs without affecting the future generation to success their needs,
such like Economies, Social, and Environmental needs. Also it addresses urban sprawl and
pollution by promoting green infrastructure, promoting walking/cycling, and building sustainable
structures, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Social & Cultural Regeneration: Fosters community pride and cohesion by preserving heritage,
creating vibrant public spaces, and providing affordable housing, ensuring inclusive development.
Addresses Urban Challenges: The process of taking actions, policies, or plans to identify,
manage, and solve the problems faced by cities and urban populations. Offers solutions to aging
infrastructure, economic stagnation, and social inequities through strategic planning and
community engagement.
Enhanced Public Spaces: Public spaces are areas in a city open and accessible to all, where
people can gather, socialize, and move freely. Urban redevelopment is enabling the Transforms
underutilized areas into functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces for recreation, social interaction,
and cultural expression, like parks and riverfronts.
Example of diagram representing the above concepts
[Link] are stakeholders in urban redevelopment/renewal?
Stakeholders in urban redevelopment and renewal, based on guidelines and standards for the
preparation and implementation of urban planning schemes, encompass a broad range of
individuals, groups, and organizations with a vested interest in the outcomes of such projects.
These stakeholders are crucial for successful planning and implementation, as their input, support,
or opposition can significantly impact the project's trajectory and ultimate success. Identifying and
engaging these groups early and effectively is a cornerstone of modern urban planning principles,
often emphasized in comprehensive planning guidelines and policy frameworks. Examples of
Urban Redevelopment, Colonial to Post-colonial Tanzania. In Tanzania, colonial urban planning
was characterized by modernist ideological rationalities, employing layout planning, land use
zoning, and master planning. Post-colonial practices shifted towards strategic planning, though the
non-implementation of master and strategic plans often resulted in layout plans becoming the
primary spatial planning tool. This has led to uncoordinated urban forms, particularly in smaller
towns, highlighting the challenges of redevelopment without consistent overarching frameworks.
Urban renewal, Examples Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: Studies have examined the impact of urban
renewal policies on housing conditions in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, highlighting the ongoing
challenges and complexities of such initiatives in rapidly urbanizing contexts.
The primary stakeholders in urban redevelopment and renewal projects, as outlined in
various urban planning guidelines and standards, typically include:
Property Owners and Developers: Landowners, property owners (both residential and
commercial), and private developers are central to the implementation of redevelopment
projects. Developers are often responsible for financing, designing, and constructing new
buildings and infrastructure. Their interests typically revolve around profitability, return on
investment, and efficient project execution. Property owners may be directly impacted by land
acquisition, property value changes, or new development opportunities. Example, a private real
estate developer like Related Companies undertaking a mixed-use development project in a
blighted urban area, or individual homeowners whose properties are part of a compulsory purchase
order for a new infrastructure project. Levy, J. M. (2017). Contemporary Urban Planning.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Advocacy Groups: A diverse range of NGOs
may be involved, including environmental groups, historic preservation societies, social justice
organizations, and cultural heritage foundations. These groups advocate for specific interests, such
as ecological sustainability, protection of historical assets, equitable development, or cultural
diversity, and often play a watchdog role in ensuring that projects align with broader societal
values. Examples: An environmental advocacy group pushing for green building standards in a
new development, a historic preservation society working to protect significant buildings from
demolition, or a homeless advocacy organization ensuring that redevelopment plans address the
needs of vulnerable populations. Healey, P. (1997). Collaborative Planning: Shaping Places in
Fragmented Societies. UBC Press.
Businesses and Economic Actors: Local businesses, both small and large, operating within or
adjacent to the redevelopment zone are significant stakeholders. This includes retailers, service
providers, industrial enterprises, and business associations. Their concerns often relate to potential
disruption during construction, changes in customer traffic, economic opportunities arising from
new development, and the overall economic viability of the area. Examples; Banks providing
construction loans, private equity firms investing in large-scale urban renewal projects,
or community development financial institutions (CDFIs) funding affordable housing
initiatives. Fainstein, S. S. (2010).
Existing Residents and Community Groups: The individuals and families currently residing in
or near the redevelopment area are critical stakeholders. This includes homeowners, renters, and
vulnerable populations. Community groups, neighborhood associations, and advocacy
organizations representing these residents play a vital role in voicing concerns, advocating for their
interests (e.g., affordable housing, displacement prevention, preservation of community character),
and participating in public consultations. Their engagement is essential for ensuring equitable and
socially sustainable outcomes.
Local Government and Public Agencies: This category is paramount, as they are often the
initiators, regulators, and facilitators of urban redevelopment. This includes municipal planning
departments, city councils, housing authorities, public works departments, environmental
protection agencies, and economic development corporations. Their roles involve policy-making,
zoning, infrastructure provision, funding allocation, and ensuring compliance with legal and
environmental standards.
Infrastructure and Utility Providers: Companies and agencies responsible for essential services
like water, electricity, gas, telecommunications, and transportation (e.g., public transit authorities)
are crucial stakeholders. Their involvement ensures that redevelopment plans are integrated with
existing infrastructure networks and that necessary upgrades or expansions are planned and
implemented.
Professional Organizations: Associations representing urban planners, architects, engineers, and
other related professions often contribute to the development of guidelines and standards and may
offer expert advice or review project proposals
Financial Institutions: Banks, investment firms, and other financial entities provide the capital
necessary for redevelopment projects. Their interest lies in the financial viability and risk
assessment of projects, as well as the potential for long-term returns on their investments.
Academic Institutions and Researchers: Universities and research bodies can contribute
valuable expertise through studies, data analysis, and innovative solutions for urban
challenges. They can act as independent evaluators, provide technical assistance, and contribute to
evidence-based planning.
Effective stakeholder engagement strategies, as emphasized in urban planning guidelines, involve
transparent communication, inclusive decision-making processes, and mechanisms for conflict
resolution to ensure that the diverse interests and concerns of these groups are addressed
throughout the redevelopment process.
REFERENCE
Roberts, P. (2000). The evolution, definition and purpose of urban regeneration. In Urban
Regeneration: A Handbook. SAGE Publications.
Kiwara, Lekamere. (2016). Urban Renewal Policy on Housing Conditions in Dar es Salaam,
Tanzania. KTH Royal Institute of Technology.
Gupta, J.; Pouw, N.R.M.; Ros-Tonen, M.A.F. (2015). Towards an elaborated theory of inclusive
development. European Journal of Development Research, 27, 541–559.
URT, (2007) Guidelines for The Preparation of General Planning Schemes and Detailed Schemes
for New Areas, Urban Renewal and Regularization.
URT, (2025) Guidelines for The Preparation of General Planning Schemes and Detailed Schemes
for New Areas, Urban Renewal and Regularization.
Kombe, W. J. (2005). The New Urban Planning Act in Tanzania: Challenges and Opportunities
for Urban Development.
The United Republic of Tanzania. Urban Planning Act, 2007 (Part III - Planning Schemes).
The United Republic of Tanzania. Urban Planning Act, 2007 (Part VI - Acquisition of Land).
The United Republic of Tanzania. Urban Planning Act, 2007 (Part V - Development Control).
The United Republic of Tanzania. Urban Planning Act, 2007 (Part II - General Principles).