Public – private partnership for sustainable cities: The case of Harare City.

Abstract

The Zimbabwean urban environments are facing several challenges to which Public Private Partnerships are a possible solution. The field of urban regeneration is comparable to this. This research examined the role of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in development, specifically in urban regeneration with specific focus on Harare City as a case study. The research also sought to examine challenges affecting PPPs, as well as critical success factors for the implementation of these initiatives, specifically in the area of urban regeneration and development. The literature reviewed established that PPPs have a major role in urban regeneration as they accelerate project implementation, improve the resource base and levels of efficiency of projects as well as the quality of public infrastructure. They also reduce project costs, create employment and empower of locals, thereby contributing to the country’s economic progress. The literature also outlined the conditions that are necessary for the establishment of successful PPPs, which include macro conditions such as political and economic stability and micro conditions like transparency and trust, proper monitoring and evaluation, well functioning information dissemination systems, commitment, community involvement and the adoption of PPP policy. Challenges to establishment of effective PPPs were also examined and these include corruption and resource misuse, lack of understanding of partners’ goals, absence of trust, accountability and flexibility and conflicts. The researcher employed the qualitative research design with the units of analysis including council officials, urban development experts and members from three organizations that have worked with Harare City Council under PPP in urban regeneration. The study employed the purposive sampling technique. Interviews, observations and review of historical documents were also employed to enrich the study. Data was presented in the form of discussions under thematic headings as well as tables that summarized findings. Findings confirmed that although plagued by challenges of their own, PPPs are the answer to the dilapidated state of the physical, economic and social urban environment. Based on the results of this research, as well as knowledge garnered from a review of available literature on this topic, a clear consolidated view of the functioning of PPPs in urban regeneration is generated. Conclusions and recommendations were then drawn with respect to findings that are expected to be of value for future PPPs in Zimbabwe and other countries. The researcher also gave sector specific and PPP project specific recommendations.