Strengthening Institutional Planning Framework on Urban Slum Upgrading Challenges in Bamenda City, Cameroon

Abstract

While slum upgrading depends significantly on a realistic institutional framework which provides functional and operational modalities, the pitfalls on urban planning for decent affordable housing conditions remain a nightmare in most African metropolis. It is against this backdrop that this study examines
the constraints on slum upgrading challenges in Bamenda city. Field observation was carried out in the different slum development sites in Bamenda town to gather information on the state of slums vis-à-vis institutional actions in planning and development. Formal interviews were granted to personnel of
the Ministries of Urban Development and Housing, Decentralisation and Local Development as well as the City Councils. These interviews were complemented with published materials and Council Annual Reports on planning efficiency, challenges and development implications. Findings reveal
that slum upgrading is bedeviled by a plethora of challenges being the internal institutional conflicts, nepotism, embezzlement, bribery and corruption characterized by planning chasing development not development chasing planning and the lack of adequate, qualified and experienced manpower for planning and governance. Institutional capacity building as well as strengthening and adjusting urban planning frameworks is highly recommended for effective slum upgrading in the city.