The Impacts of Urban Expansion on the Socio-Economic Life of Peri-Urban Community: A Study in Mekaneselam Town, South Wollo Administrative Zone

This study was conducted in a selected peri-urban community of Mekaneselam town, aiming to investigate the impacts of urban expansion on the socio-economic lives of the people residing in the study area. The study draws on the social constructivist paradigm to describe and understand the subjective meanings that participants attach to the social world in which they live and the phenomenon under investigation. The researcher employed a qualitative approach, using a phenomenological research design to explore the impacts of urban expansion on the socio-economic life of the peri-urban community in Mekaneselam town. In conducting the study, the researcher used a non-probability sampling technique to select the informants. Observations, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews were the primary data collection methods. Using purposive and snowball sampling techniques, 15 participants were selected for interviews, five for key informant interviews, and an additional two focus group discussions (each containing six members). The researcher employed a thematic analysis approach. The findings of the study revealed that the main causes of urban expansion include rapid population growth, migration, the expansion of residential housing, suitable topography, and the conversion of large amounts of prime agricultural land to urban land uses in the peri-urban areas. The coping strategies adopted by residents include engaging in petty trade, alcohol production, and casual labor. Urban expansion has affected the economic assets, social networks, and interpersonal relationships of the peri-urban communities. In addition, it has led to the loss of land, a reduction in livestock and crop production, and conflicts related to land and asset ownership. Social instability, resulting from family breakups, weakened social bonds, and disrupted social relations, has affected cultural practices and traditional social associations in the peri-urban community. Finally, based on the findings of the study, the researchers suggest the following: First, the government should maintain balanced growth by strengthening the existing local plan and encouraging a participatory approach to promote transparency within the local community. Second, rural development policy should be appropriately implemented to ensure balanced economic growth between urban and peri-urban communities. In addition, follow-up efforts should be made to support dislocated farming communities by creating and expanding job opportunities and improving access to education and services.