Urbanisation Dynamics in Lesotho

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Periodical article

Title:	Urbanisation Dynamics in Lesotho
Author:	Marais, Lochner
Year:	1999
Periodical:	Africa Insight
Volume:	29
Issue:	1-2
Pages:	11-16
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Lesotho
Subjects:	urbanization Urbanization and Migration Development and Technology Ethnic and Race Relations
Abstract:	An overview of Lesotho's urbanization statistics shows an urbanization growth rate of approximately 5 percent per annum since 1986. However, the 1996 functional urbanization level is much higher, estimated at approximately 30 percent, or a growth rate of 6.3 percent since 1986. From these figures it is clear that, although urbanization levels in Lesotho are still very low, the process is accelerating. This article examines the reasons for the current low urbanization level as well as its recent acceleration. A number of inhibiting factors have played a role in the country's low urbanization growth: negative urban perceptions, large investments in agriculture, good services in rural areas, dependence on remittances from migrant workers, and the role of chiefs, traditional culture and land tenure. Factors contributing to urbanization include better living conditions in urban areas, the fact that it is more and more difficult to make a living from the land, the poor state of the ecology, access to South Africa, and the downscaling of the mining industry. Ref.