Presentation

Urban biodiversity is at the heart of new environmental policies, linked to the extension of conservation action to new spaces, such as urban territories. Protected areas (such as national parks) remain the main focus (because they are the best known and oldest in Africa) of nature protection policies, as the presence of national parks in emerging metropolises such as Nairobi and Cape Town illustrates.

In a context marked by strong demographic and urban growth, and in which urbanization is spreading into natural and rural areas, there is a need for new human-nature relations and new forms of territorial governance. Thus, the urban environment is at the heart of multifold (and often highly political) issues, from pollution to the fight against erosion and waste management. Through case studies, this seminar provides an overview of some of these issues.

Recommended Prerequisite(s)

Some basic knowledge in the fields of African and urban Studies is welcome but not compulsory.

Educational formula

This class is based on presentations by the lecturer, generally with supporting documents. This promotes student interaction and participation. Some students will be required to write an essay on the seminar (students will only be assessed on all five classes provided as part of the “African Cities” certificate).