Sustainability of urban expansion in Africa: a systematic literature review using the Drivers-Pressures-State-Impact-Responses (DPSIR) framework

Rapid urban population growth in Africa has resulted in the rapid expansion of many African cities. This has important ramifications for sustainable development across the continent. However, studies systematically synthesising the emerging literature to critically comprehend the different dimensions of urban expansion in Africa, and its intersections with sustainability are lacking. We conduct a systematic review of 247 peer-reviewed papers, critically discussing the dimensions of urban expansion in Africa, using the Drivers-Pressures-State-Impacts-Responses (DPSIR) model. Despite the significant variability between contexts, urban expansion occurs through a complex mix of Drivers, including urban population growth, in-migration, housing deficits, and the complex land governance systems. Urban expansion has multiple Impacts including the loss of agricultural land and natural vegetation that catalyses livelihood shifts/loss, and social transformation in expansion areas. The literature on the Responses to urban expansion is rather limited, usually focuses on policy-oriented responses, and suggests that such policy-oriented responses are rarely implemented effectively. Overall, we observe the centrality and multi-dimensional role of land (and its governance) and demographic transitions in urban expansion processes. We also identify the severe fragmentation of the relevant literature, the disproportionate focus on urban expansion's negative Impacts, and the critical lack of studies on Responses. Arguably, there is a need for more systematic, cohesive and increasingly comparative research to both understand the different dimensions of urban expansion, as well as design effective and fit-for-purpose responses to ensure that it does not compromise Africa's sustainable development.

Automated summary

Rapid urban population growth in Africa has led to the expansion of many African cities, with significant implications for sustainable development. However, there is a lack of comprehensive studies that critically analyze the dimensions of urban expansion in Africa and its intersections with sustainability. Through a systematic review of peer-reviewed papers, we identified key drivers, impacts, and responses to urban expansion in Africa. The findings highlight the central role of land and demographic transitions in urban expansion processes, while also revealing the fragmented nature of the existing literature and the need for more effective policy responses.