Author(s): Douglas Chiguvi, Dorothy Kgathi-Thite
The study attempt to address issues of urban sprawl in cities in Botswana. The study analysed the causes of urban sprawl and dwelling transformation in the Tati Siding village in Botswana. The research employed a non-probability purposive sampling and qualitative descriptive case study research approach, using semi-structured interview. The study showed that urban sprawl has negative effects in Tati Siding village amongst them was the need for more services and infrastructure development which need budget provision from government and increase in crime. The study also showed that the economic benefits of urban sprawl were house rental and increase in land value. The research suggested that villages nearer the city be provided with similar services and infrastructure so that people do not show preferences to a particular village because of its better services and infrastructure. The study also suggested that government must introduce levies to compensate for the increase in the property value after planning, development of services and infrastructure and shift the cost of infrastructure provision to developers by incentivizing developers to bear the cost of providing services and infrastructure in sprawling areas.