Evaluating the Role of Local Governments in Climate Governance in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Comparative Study of Mafikeng City (South Africa) and Kisumu City (Kenya)

Authors and Collaborators:

• Stephen Balaka Opiyo, North-West University
• Roelof P. Burger, North-West University
• Godwin Opinde, Kenyatta University
• Niké Wesch, North-West University

Summary:

Local governments in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are increasingly tasked with implementing climate action plans to mitigate emissions and enhance urban resilience. Yet, the effectiveness of governance structures and strategies of these governments in addressing urban climate challenges remains poorly understood. This study compares climate governance approaches in Mafikeng, South Africa, and Kisumu, Kenya—two similarly sized SSA cities facing distinct yet comparable climate risks. A mixed-methods approach was employed to capture both breadth and depth of environmental governance practices. Quantitative data was collected via questionnaires administered to employees in institutions involved in environmental management, while qualitative insights were obtained through key informant interviews with heads of governmental and non-governmental institutions and local structures. Quantitative analyses included descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U tests, Chi-square tests, and ordinal logistic regression, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. Kisumu reported significantly greater familiarity with city climate actions, stronger perceptions of effectiveness, higher perceived integration of local knowledge, attention to vulnerable groups, and greater inter-institutional and community coordination compared to Mafikeng. Kisumu’s participatory, multi-actor approach enhances visibility, effectiveness, and adaptive capacity, whereas Mafikeng’s research-oriented, top-down model shows strong commitment but limited operational visibility, coordination, and community engagement. OLS analysis confirmed that familiarity with climate actions, perceived integration of local knowledge, and coordination mechanisms are key determinants of perceived effectiveness. Financial constraints, coordination gaps, and limited community involvement remain critical challenges, particularly in Mafikeng. Tailored, inclusive, and adaptive strategies integrating local knowledge and participatory governance are recommended for building resilient urban futures in SSA.  

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