Abstract

Geospatial analyses of municipal boundaries against traditional authority
Track: Cadastral and Land Records
Authors: cleotilda nxumalo

After democracy, South Africa underwent a period of reform in order to address inequalities. As part of this, the Municipal Demarcation Board began demarcating local government boundaries. The MDB was dependent on government agencies to supply geospatial data however, this data was often outdated and at times inaccurate. Through participation mapping, social boundaries could be mapped and compared against municipal demarcation in order to determine whether the processes was aligned to preserve the traditional means of authority in rural communities. After a comparison of data, a geospatial analyses was done to determine the reasons for the inconsistencies in municipal/social boundaries by using overlays. It is vital to note that when there is a lack of or absence of land administration, then public participation may give guidance in identifying gaps that were overlooked or misinterpreted. From this critique improvements to the municipal demarcation processes are suggested.