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Customary land management systems and urban planning in peri-urban informal settlements

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  • Herman Geyer

Abstract

Customary land management systems are informal, community-driven land-use regulation systems that adapt zoning regulations and customary tenure to cooperatively self-regulate land-use management in multi-ethnic peri-urban settlements. The research uses an integrative literature review to critically re-evaluate the various concepts and practices of customary land management, their impact on the unique morphology of peri-urban areas and their relationship with urban planning. The research results indicate that customary land management systems are intrinsically linked to peri-urban settlements due to their polymorphic spatial structure and complex social groupings. It provides a simplified accessible and affordable land management system with multiple avenues for agency and a balance of power between different authorities. This generates a new set of social relations around neo-customary tenure. Customary land management systems are also linked to urban planning within a dual regulatory structure, combining formal policies and informal customs and providing alternatives for exploitative and exclusionary processes in weak and inefficient states.

Suggested Citation

  • Herman Geyer, 2025. "Customary land management systems and urban planning in peri-urban informal settlements," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 62(2), pages 310-327, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:urbstu:v:62:y:2025:i:2:p:310-327
    DOI: 10.1177/00420980241253790
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    References listed on IDEAS

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