Integrating Spatial Data and Indigenous Knowledge Systems for Resilient Urban Planning: Lessons from South Africa

Moyo, Thembani and Letsoko, Vuyiswa and Mndzebele, Mhlalisi Gavu and Mbatha, Siphiwe and Mzobe, Nonpumelelo and Gumbo, Trynos (2026) Integrating Spatial Data and Indigenous Knowledge Systems for Resilient Urban Planning: Lessons from South Africa. EVERYBODY PLANS ... SOMETIMES. Cherish Heritage, Plan Now, Create a Better Future! Proceedings of REAL CORP 2026, 31st International Conference on Urban Development, Regional Planning and Information Society. pp. 537-543. ISSN 2521-3938

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Abstract

Johannesburg’s marginalised settlements are among the most dynamic urban environments globally. These locations have limited infrastructure resources, which have negatively impacted household livelihoods. There is a critical need for developing planning support systems to improve the quality of life in these communities. As part of the city’s transformation strategy, urban agriculture has emerged as a critical approach to enhancing food security and economic empowerment, particularly in marginalized areas. However, effective planning for urban agriculture necessitates spatial intelligence and community engagement. This study employs a mixed-method approach, combining indigenous knowledge systems with spatial data to assess land suitability. The findings present a land suitability index to inform spatial planning, demonstrating how integrating GIS and citizen science strengthens urban resilience through adaptive land use, improved local food systems, and climate change mitigation.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Geographic Information Systems, food security, citizen science, urban resilience, spatial planning
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor H Social Sciences > HM Sociology Q Science > QA Mathematics > QA76 Computer software Z Bibliography. Library Science. Information Resources > ZA Information resources > ZA4450 Databases
Depositing User:	REAL CORP Administrator
Date Deposited:	05 Apr 2026 15:38
Last Modified:	05 Apr 2026 15:38
URI:	http://repository.corp.at/id/eprint/1303

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