This book explores whether and how a reinterpretation of Sub-Saharan cities through the
concept of adaptive capacity could bridge this distance and contribute to a new understanding
of the contemporary city. The research contributes to improved knowledge of urban and
environmental planning and of the dynamics of development and environmental management in
peri-urban areas of Dar es Salaam. This knowledge highlights the limits of certain common
generalizations on the character of peri-urban areas. Moreover the research provides
methodological contribution derived from considerations on the strengths and weakness of tools
and methods for investigating adaptive capacity and for environmental management in the city
of Dar es Salaam. Finally it highlights controversial issues and possible research paths
related to the relationship between adaptive capacity and urban and environmental planning.
