Relational nature values in Southern African local knowledge systems and their implications for the design and management of nature spaces

The context and impact of urban nature experiences are receiving merited research and design attention. Yet, a paucity remains in research on nature relations and well-being in Africa. Western traditions have strongly influenced urban nature spaces, their design, governance and use. Engaging with Indigenous and local knowledge systems can reveal sources of alternative values that provide for reflections on distinct ontologies with implications for design practices and governance logics. Through such distinctive understandings, nature spaces can be more meaningful and reciprocal to all life. The research investigates existing nature connections in a peri-urban area of Tshwane, South Africa, and inquires into the factors that encourage or deter these connections and the implications for design and management practices. Qualitative, semi-structured, and photo-eliciting interviews were conducted with 51 residents. The findings show three interdependent inner nature relations connecting to self, to life and to divinity (relational and intrinsic values), which are maintained by external sensory experiences (eudemonistic) and functional practices (instrumental values) that bring about internal health and spiritual well-being (eudemonistic values). Current socio-ecological change affects the durability and transformation of these values. The findings show that these nature connections are strengthened through access to and learning experiences in nature, which are hindered by adverse external conditions connected to socio-economic constraints, including marginal conditions that exacerbate dumping and safety concerns, urbanization, and westernization. Conceptual and methodological approaches to design and management are needed to make diminishing cultural values more detectable and actionable, and shape alternative forms of nature governance. The connection of internal and external value domains has potential for transformative sustainability. To enable such an approach and methodology, we propose that designers and policymakers support the co-creation and co-management of spaces for nature experiences that retain place identity by linking culturally specific internal and external nature connections, as identified in our study. We further advocate for creating platforms that facilitate the exchange of knowledge about nature, allowing for the sharing of cultural practices, their livelihood values, and meanings.