The limit of community initiatives in addressing resettlement in Kurasini ward, Tanzania

Abstract

This paper describes the process adopted for the redevelopment of Kurasini ward in Dar-es-Salaam to allow for the expansion of the port. The redevelopment includes the resettlement of more than 36,000 people who have been living in various informal settlements within the ward. However, the resettlement and compensation offer nothing to most residents who are tenants. It has also failed to identify alternative sites for the displaced people. The paper describes how the Tanzania Urban Poor Federation (TUPF) and the Centre for Community Initiatives (a local NGO) are collaborating with the municipal authorities and the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Human Settlements to develop alternative solutions for land and shelter for the displaced people. This includes the federation purchasing land and developing it, and also suggesting plot layouts that can cut unit costs. Drawing on this example, the author argues that in resettlement projects, national and local government agencies need to be flexible in addressing the needs of all the urban poor, including not only the owners of the structures in informal settlements but also the tenants.