CHAPTER 1

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

This chapter introduces the research which is based on inner city decay and renewal in Bamenda Town, North West Region of Cameroon: case study of Ntambag quarters. This chapter present the background of study from global to specific, study area, statement of the geographical problem, literature review, research questions, research objectives, research hypotheses, the importance and pertinence of study

1.1 Background of study

Urban decay, a global phenomenon, has significantly impacted cities worldwide, particularly in developing countries. Inner city decay is the decline and degradation of urban areas, resulting in decreased quality of life for residents. According to Turok (2012), inner city decay is often attributed to factors such as urbanization, poverty, unemployment, inadequate housing, lack of investment in infrastructure and infrastructure decay. This phenomenon is often the result of a combination of factors. Inner city decay and renewal are pressing concerns for urban planners, policymakers, and residents worldwide. As the global urban population is projected to reach 6.7 billion by 2050, with much of this growth occurring in Africa and Asia (UN-Habitat, 2020), the challenges of urbanization have become increasingly obvious. The buildup areas in urban centres in developing countries especially in inner cities are decaying rapidly. This is attributed to the population growth, economic depression and degeneration of basic amenities. The rate of urban growth in developing countries is a mismatch with the rate of housing development and services provision, Maluh et al (2019).  According to Le Gates (2020), The rapid growth of cities has led to increased pressure on urban infrastructure and services, resulting in decay and deterioration in many inner-city areas. Further emphasizes that this decay can be addressed through urban renewal initiatives, such as revitalizing public spaces, investing in community development programs, and implementing sustainable urban planning strategies to restore inner-city areas (Stout 2020)

In Africa, the urbanization trend is particularly pronounced, with the continent’s urban population expected to triple by 2050 (African Development Bank, 2020). Cameroon, a lower-middle-income country in Central Africa, is no exception to this trend. The country’s urban population has grown rapidly in recent decades, leading to increased pressure on urban infrastructure and services (Kofon, 2019). Many African cities struggle with decay, social problems, and economic decline, affecting the quality of life for their residents, hindering sustainable development, and threatening the well-being of future generations.

 In Cameroon, the issue is also found in the Northwest Region, where rapid urbanization and socio-political unrest have worsened existing problems. Bamenda town one of the fastest-urbanizing regions in the country, has experienced a significant decline in recent years, with visible signs of decay evident in its urban landscape.  Bamenda town, has experienced rapid growth, and this rapid growth has led to increased pressure on urban infrastructure, services, and environments, resulting in decay and digradation in many inner-city areas (Acho-Chi, 2013). Bamenda Plays a significant role as an agent of growth and development through it political, social and economic status and abundance of opportunities it offers, which attract most rural migrations (Maluh et al 2019).

Maluh et al,(2019), notes that a large proportion of this migrants cannot afford decent housing resolving to low quality housing in the inner city slum neighborhood’s such as Ntambag, Ntamulung, Atua-Azire and Ayana. Such areas are characterized by poor toilet facilities, waste disposal, housing structure and roads. Factors such as poor urban planning, inadequate infrastructure, and limited investment have contributed to this decline. The Northwest Region Development Plan of 2015 recognized the need for urban renewal in Bamenda, but implementation has been hindered by various challenges. Bamenda, once a bustling commercial hub, now faces challenges such as dilapidated housing, crumbling infrastructure, and environmental degradation. Bamenda’s historic city center, has fallen into disrepair. Many buildings are now empty or used for different purposes. This decay is not just about how the city looks; it also affects the local economy, community relationships, and overall quality of life. Despite these challenges, efforts are underway to restore Bamenda’s inner city. The city council is working to improve infrastructure, create economic opportunities, and engage with the community (Bamenda City Council, 2020). Fixing urban decay and renewal is a complex issue that requires understanding the social, economic, and environmental factors that contribute to it (Login 2020).

Bamenda, has experienced rapid urbanization, leading to increased pressure on urban infrastructure and services, exacerbating inner city decay. Ntambag, a neighborhood in Bamenda, is no exception, facing challenges such as inadequate housing, poor sanitation, and limited access to basic services. As noted by Sikiru, K., Olatunji, O. (2018), inner city decay can have far-reaching consequences, including decreased property values, increased crime rates, and negative impacts on public health. Aiyelabola, J. A. L & Olorunfemi, A (2018) emphasize the need for effective urban planning and management strategies to address inner city decay.

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) (2015) highlights the importance of urban renewal initiatives in revitalizing inner cities. However, the success of such initiatives depends on various factors, including community engagement, effective governance, and adequate resource allocation. In the context of Ntambag, Bamenda, this research aims to investigate how inner city decay manifest, it renewal, the causes and consequences of inner city decay and explore strategies for renewal and regeneration, with a focus on community-led initiatives and sustainable urban planning practices.

1.2 The Study Area

Ntambag mostly called Old Town is located in Bamenda, the capital of the North-West Region of Cameroon. It is situated in the Bamenda Municipality, which is one of the seven municipalities that make up the Bamenda Council Area (Bamenda City Council, 2020). It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Bamenda and is part of the Bamenda City Council. Ntambag  comprised of three smaller quarters – Ntambag I, Ntambag II and Ntambag III. Geographically, Ntambag is situated at latitude 5.9667° N and longitude 10.1333° E (Geo-database of Cameroon 2016. NIS Yaounde).

 Figure 1.1. Location of Study Area

Source: Bamenda City Council, 2020

The area is characterized by a mix of old and new buildings, with narrow streets and valley. Ntambag is situated on a hillside, with steep slopes and narrow valleys.   The ethnic and religious backgrounds of Ntambag residents are varied and influence the inter-resident relations substantially.  This quarter has a number of streams cutting across it and houses which have been built too close to the water ways are at risk due to landslides and flooding

1.2.2 Administrative Status

Administratively, Ntambag is part of the Bamenda I Sub-Division, which is one of the three sub-divisions that make up the Bamenda Municipality (North West Regional Delegation of Territorial Administration, 2019). The neighborhood is further divided into several quarters, each with its own local leadership structure.

1.2.3 Population

According to the 2005 Population data by village and quarter in Cameroon (population Census 2005) the population of Ntambqg was 9892. However, this number have increased significantly due to rapid urbanization and migration. Due to growth, approximately 15,300 inhabitants live in Ntambag with a density of 161 inhabitants per hectare according to NTAMBAG COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OF 2015.

1.2.4 Human Activities

Ntambag is a busy neighborhood with a mix of formal and informal human activities. The area is mostly residential, with a high density of housing units, ranging from modern buildings to traditional mud houses (Tambi, 2017). Commercial activities are also common, with numerous shops, and street vendors selling a variety of goods (Kinyaga, 2018). The area is also home to several small-scale industries, including carpentry, blacksmithing, food processing and sales, transportation and logistics, and education and healthcare services (Njiforti, 2020). The area is a hub of economic activity, with many residents engaged in informal sector activities.

1.3 Statement of the Research problem:

Inner city decay is a pressing issue in Bamenda, Cameroon, exemplified by the situation in Ntambag. The causes of this decay are multifaceted, stemming from rapid urbanization, poverty, and a lack of investment in infrastructure. These factors have contributed to both physical and social deterioration in the area. Inadequate urban planning, ineffective waste management, and limited access to essential services further exacerbate these challenges, creating a cycle of decline that is difficult to break.

The impacts of inner city decay in Ntambag are profound and detrimental. Residents face poor living conditions characterized by inadequate housing and sanitation, as well as restricted access to healthcare and education. The area grapples with high crime rates and social unrest, which not only diminish the quality of life but also deter investment and economic activity. Businesses are closing due to declining customer bases, leading to job losses and reduced economic vitality. This downward spiral not only affects individual livelihoods but also undermines the broader community fabric.

Addressing the issue of inner city decay in Ntambag requires the development and implementation of effective renewal strategies. Key interventions may include investing in infrastructure, enhancing waste management and sanitation systems, and improving access to basic services like healthcare and education. Additionally, fostering community-led initiatives and establishing public-private partnerships will be crucial in promoting economic development and social cohesion. This research aims to investigate the causes and effects of inner city decay in Ntambag, with a focus on identifying viable strategies for renewal and regeneration that can revitalize the area.