A Reality Check of Stakeholder Engagement Practice in Urban Planning in the Harare Metropolitan Province

Abstract

Urban planning increasingly emphasises participatory approaches to ensure that development outcomes reflect community needs. This study examines stakeholder engagement in urban planning within the Harare Metropolitan, using a mixed-methods approach combining surveys and key-informant interviews. Quantitative data driven from a sample size of 205 and a population of 1 195, were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were assessed through thematic analysis. Findings indicate that stakeholder engagement remains limited, largely fragmented and constrained by governance challenges, inadequate communication, power imbalances and insufficient transparency. Stakeholders expressed dissatisfaction with the level of consultation, access to information and influence on planning decisions. The study recommends strengthening participatory frameworks, improving transparency, building institutional capacity and establishing inclusive planning platforms to enhance meaningful engagement.