Perception Of Green Spaces by the Populations in the City of Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59228/rcst.026.v5.i1.245Keywords:
population perception, Urban green spaces, environmental awareness, urban planning, KinshasaAbstract
Urban green spaces contribute significantly to environmental quality and urban well-being, yet their sustainability also depends on how they are perceived and valued by urban populations. This study analyzes the perception of urban green spaces among residents of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, with a focus on the communes of Gombe, Kalamu, Matete, and N’Djili. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 240 respondents using structured questionnaires. The analysis examined levels of awareness, knowledge of green space functions, and attitudes toward their use and potential conversion. The results indicate a high level of awareness: 90.4% of respondents reported knowledge of the existence of green spaces in their commune, and 85.8% were able to identify at least one such space. Ecological functions were recognized by 92.9% of respondents, social and recreational functions by 90.8%, and aesthetic functions by 83.8%. Attitudes toward conversion reveal strong opposition, as 88.3% of respondents disapproved of transforming green spaces into built-up areas. Among the minority supporting conversion (11.7%), housing needs (50.0%) and employment considerations (28.6%) were the main justifications. These findings indicate that urban green spaces are widely perceived as valuable and multifunctional urban assets. Integrating population perceptions into urban planning and governance strategies may enhance the effectiveness and social acceptance of policies aimed at ensuring the sustainable management of green spaces in rapidly growing African cities.
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