The Role of Car-Free Zones as Public Open Spaces in Enhancing Place Identity in Kigali City

Abstract

Car-free zones as pedestrianized, non-motorized public open spaces within urban realms offer various functions based on their physical elements. The activities within foster special connections based on their physical characteristics, meanings and memories attached, leading to formation of place identity (PI). Despite the rapid emergence of car-free initiatives in African cities, limited empirical research has examined how such spaces contribute to place identity formation. There are few studies in Africa currently that delve into place-people relationships within car-free zones. The car-free zone within Kigali City’s central business district presents the case study. The study aimed first to analyze the functions of the space, second to analyze the physical elements and image of the space and lastly to investigate perceptions on PI. A mixed-methods approach was employed using a survey of 183 respondents, field investigation through photography and mapping. Regression analysis identified landscape values, such as air quality, recreation and therapeutic values as significant predictors of PI, while correlation analysis revealed moderate positive spatial associations.