The purpose of this chapter is to review the historical trajectory of urbanisation and its implications for contemporary South African society. There is a particular focus on the triangular relationship among urbanisation, economic development and social inequality because this has been an enduring bone of contention in government policy towards cities. The chapter is organised essentially in two parts: the first discussed the controversial history of urban growth and the way it is was shaped by state policy. The second explores the impact of this inheritance on current patterns of poverty and development and the challenges involved in reversing this legacy to create more equitable and efficient cities.
Human Sciences Research Council (2026) studied this question.