Experiences of Socio-Spatial Injustice and Inequality: a Case of Galeshewe Township, Kimberley

Tsile, Gofaone Imelda and Letsoko, Vuyiswa (2025) Experiences of Socio-Spatial Injustice and Inequality: a Case of Galeshewe Township, Kimberley. URBAN INNOVATION: TO BOLDLY GO WHERE NO CITIES HAVE GONE BEFORE. Medium sized cities and towns as a major arena of global urbanisation. Proceedings of REAL CORP 2025, 30th Intl. Conference on Urban Development, Regional Planning and Information Society. pp. 451-458. ISSN 2521-3938

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Abstract

The enduring legacy of spatial apartheid continues to shape the lived experiences of many South Africans, particularly in urban areas. Historical injustices have resulted in fragmented spatial configurations that exacerbate socio-economic inequalities. Galeshewe Township in Kimberley, Northern Cape province, South Africa, serves as a case study of a community grappling with these challenges. This study aims to investigate the socio-spatial injustices and inequalities experienced by Galeshewe residents. The research is motivated by the significant and ongoing impact of these issues on the community, as well as the dearth of scholarly research addressing this topic within the South African context. Ten key socio-economic factors were identified for analysis: income disparity, rural-urban divide, educational attainment, health outcomes, public service access, land tenure security, poverty, employment patterns, and spatial freedom. A qualitative research methodology, employing semi-structured interviews and a qualitative survey, was utilized to collect data. The sample comprised fifteen residents of Galeshewe and five professional planners. Purposive sampling and snowball sampling techniques were employed to select participants from the township. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the collected data. The findings revealed that the unequal distribution of societal benefits significantly contributes to economic deprivation and limited access to essential services. Based on these results, the study concludes by advocating for social cohesion, inclusivity, and equitable planning practices. This research contributes to the field of urban planning by highlighting the enduring impacts of historical injustices and the need for more equitable and socially just urban development.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Socio-spatial justice, Socio-spatial inequality, Galeshewe Township, Kimberley, Challenges
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HM Sociology J Political Science > JS Local government Municipal government
Depositing User:	The CORP Team
Date Deposited:	26 May 2025 15:06
Last Modified:	07 Jul 2025 11:07
URI:	http://repository.corp.at/id/eprint/1258

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