{
  "id": 15767086,
  "title": "Are we building Gqeberha with the future in mind?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/20/are-we-building-gqeberha-with-the-future-in-mind",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-20T16:50:32.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Daily Maverick",
    "slug": "daily-maverick",
    "url": "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/opinionista/2026-10-20-are-we-building-gqeberha-with-the-future-in-mind/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As Gqeberha extends outward with new residential areas and commercial centers, the spaces that foster community risk being neglected. Street markets, green areas, libraries, and beachside gatherings present an alternative perspective on what constitutes a livable metropolis. Claire Martens, Senior Communications Officer at Natural Justice, highlights the city's picturesque beaches, reasonably priced eateries, unrefined downtown, poorly maintained roads, and high crime rate. Similar to other cities worldwide, Gqeberha confronts its challenges while cherishing any distinctive attributes it possesses, whether accidental or deliberate. Locals internalize the city's challenges as their way of life, influencing their interactions, networking, and economic decisions. Youth Instagram users emphasize the significance of efficiency, friendliness, convenience, and affordability in their daily lives. Crime remains a pressing issue in Gqeberha, affecting streets, homes, and even recreational areas. This crime-ridden environment has contributed to the city's fragmentation, pushing development to the periphery. While there may be sufficient land and resources for continued construction of housing estates and malls catering to the lower-to-middle class, this sprawl can create a sense of isolation within the city. The author, with a focus on sustainable urban practices and green areas, observes limited attention to preserving communal and creative lifestyles within Gqeberha. Moreover, the impact of climate change, including droughts and floods, is not considered in the city's development. The proliferation of parking spaces, often paved over, and large malls takes precedence over street commerce and creative districts. New housing developments overshadow expansive green areas, dispersing wildlife and resulting in sterile, closely packed neighborhoods without communal areas for recreational activities. The city is replicating the trend seen in many urban areas over the past few decades, but lacking the charm found in other thriving cities: the town square that fosters community. Although Gqeberha possesses its strengths, such as the welcoming community spirit, there remains an opportunity to prioritize accessibility and integration to stimulate entrepreneurship and address the province's high youth unemployment rate. Some remaining areas in Gqeberha showcase connections between residents. Examples include the skatepark where young and old individuals practice their tricks, the beachfront despite its deterioration and association with crime, and the soccer fields in Walmer township where games bring people together. The Sardinia Bay area, during a full moon, attracts couples and friends for evening walks. However, the author suggests several alternative approaches to revitalize these community bonds and breathe new life into Gqeberha. For pedestrians, the proposal is to establish protected walkways and dedicated bike lanes, ensuring safe and convenient pathways while integrating greenery. In George, the city implemented a list of indigenous trees to replace those lost to severe winds, emphasizing the importance of trees in reducing heat islands, particularly important as South Africa experiences hotter summers. Fruit trees could also enhance urban food access. Providing seating areas encourages people to rest and appreciate their surroundings, fostering chance encounters and the development of acquaintanceship. Preserving mixed-use buildings that combine residential spaces with commercial areas reduces transportation costs. Entrepreneurs and freelancers can benefit from microbusiness hubs and permanent marketplaces, promoting foot traffic and economic activity. Sheltered spaces with permanent tables and market areas, such as the second-hand sellers on the side of the road in Walmer township, can provide affordable options. Co-working spaces, like the Sherwood Garden Centre in Johannesburg, offer additional opportunities to connect individuals.",
  "summary": "As Gqeberha spreads outwards with new housing estates and shopping centres, the places that bring people together risk being overlooked. Street markets, green spaces, libraries and beachfront gatherings offer a different vision of what a liveable metro can be.",
  "key_points": [
    "Gqeberha faces challenges with crime, poorly maintained roads, and limited communal spaces.",
    "Youth prioritize efficiency, friendliness, convenience, and affordability in daily life."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}