<p>Unplanned settlements in medium- and low-income economies house a significant portion of the growing urban population. Despite their limited resources and socioeconomic challenges, these communities demonstrate resilience through unique coping mechanisms and adaptive strategies. This study examines the coping strategies of squatter settlers in Area 4, a suburb of Sunyani, Ghana, experiencing rapid urbanization and inadequate urban planning interventions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques. A census survey of 95 squatter households was conducted using structured questionnaires, while in-depth interviews were carried out with key informants, including municipal officials and community leaders. Additionally, field observations were used to assess housing conditions, infrastructure, and environmental challenges. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS for quantitative findings and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. The study revealed that high permit costs, inadequate urban governance, and socio-cultural resilience drive informal land occupations. Residents employ diverse adaptive strategies, including informal livelihood practices and shared community resources, to mitigate vulnerabilities. This study contributes to urban development discourse by highlighting the systemic barriers squatter settlers face and emphasizing the need for inclusive urban planning policies to address housing inequalities and promote sustainable livelihoods.</p>

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Assessing the coping mechanisms of squatter settlers in small cities: a case study of area 4 in Sunyani, Ghana

  • Emmanuel Osei Bonsu,
  • Solomon Asamoah,
  • Emmanuel Atuahene,
  • Daniel Asamoah

摘要

Unplanned settlements in medium- and low-income economies house a significant portion of the growing urban population. Despite their limited resources and socioeconomic challenges, these communities demonstrate resilience through unique coping mechanisms and adaptive strategies. This study examines the coping strategies of squatter settlers in Area 4, a suburb of Sunyani, Ghana, experiencing rapid urbanization and inadequate urban planning interventions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques. A census survey of 95 squatter households was conducted using structured questionnaires, while in-depth interviews were carried out with key informants, including municipal officials and community leaders. Additionally, field observations were used to assess housing conditions, infrastructure, and environmental challenges. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS for quantitative findings and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. The study revealed that high permit costs, inadequate urban governance, and socio-cultural resilience drive informal land occupations. Residents employ diverse adaptive strategies, including informal livelihood practices and shared community resources, to mitigate vulnerabilities. This study contributes to urban development discourse by highlighting the systemic barriers squatter settlers face and emphasizing the need for inclusive urban planning policies to address housing inequalities and promote sustainable livelihoods.