A dialogue approach to stakeholder engagement with urban communities: The case of Mofolo Park, Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa

Urban parks play a crucial role in conserving the biophysical environment, yet conservation efforts mostly focus on biodiversity hotspots, iconic mammal species, and nature conservation areas. A challenge in enhancing the role of urban parks in conservation relates to the varied, and often conflicted, priorities of communities and city authorities in the engagement process. Using a qualitative research approach through in-depth interviews with community leaders, councilors, community-based organizations, and youth organizations, this study explores stakeholder engagement in the planning and management of Mofolo Park in Soweto, Johannesburg. Results indicate that although the City of Johannesburg wanted to add food gardens to the park, the community was not united in support of this. Rather, the community wanted better safety, security and ablutions in the park, in contrast to the City of Johannesburg officials. Community members also expressed concerns about water pollution, sewerage spills, security and vandalism within the park, noting this inhibited their full enjoyment of the park. The study also revealed that women’s voices were mostly silenced during community discussions. The facilitator, who represented the City of Johannesburg, a few extroverted, vocal people and men dominated the discourse. This study concludes that although community engagement through stakeholder dialogues can, and should, play a crucial role in managing urban parks, the priorities and voices of the various stakeholders need to be carefully considered if the park is to be sustainably managed and fit for purpose as an urban green recreational space for local communities.