The Design Posture and Economic Backbone of Townships: Design Consequence and Spatial Impact of ‘Informal’ Economies and Policy Formation in South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this research paper is to investigate Consequence Management in terms of the spatial impact of Township economies in Johannesburg, South Africa, and adjacent areas, as well as the extent to which these different economies require assessment, monitoring, and, finally, regularisation. In South Africa, the Township sector has a smaller (compared to the rest of the continent) but nonetheless considerable total share of employment, employing more than 2.5 million people and accounting for 20% of total employment in the country. It accounts for around 6% of the country's GDP (Township Economies, 2023; Masuku and Nzewi, 2021). Township businesses are diversified in type, and as a result, they serve as the backbone of economic survival in these locations, informing the Township's urban design posture (Larsen, 2013). Consequence Design, as opposed to consequence management, focuses on actively designing or planning outcomes while taking into account the potential influence, both good and bad, on different stakeholders and systems. It is about proactively changing outcomes to obtain desired objectives while minimising unfavourable effects. This study attempts to investigate how to effectively serve the geographical demands of these economic participants. Mileo (2019) clearly articulates this strategy, emphasising the significance of creating environments in which townships can develop. This design stance goes beyond traditional architectural techniques by including socioeconomic factors into space design. It recognises that the success of informal settlements and townships is inextricably tied to the design and development of their physical environments. South Africa's future lies in accepting a holistic and transformative approach to spatial work, in which spatial practitioners create possibilities for people to thrive rather than simply developing spaces.