Neighbourhood Streets as Public Space. Covid-19 Public Life in Kimisange, Rwanda

Abstract

Since the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the Covid-19 a global pandemic in March 2020, countries have had to swiftly adopt lockdowns and social distancing measures in order to prevent worse public health outcomes that are likely to influence the relationship between urban society and space. Whereas the economic impact of the pandemic is obvious, its influence on public life remains uncertain, and yet the pandemic has drastically changed our relationship with our streets, public spaces and public facilities.A longer term concern lies in understanding the risk that living the new normal could have on our future perception and use of public space. Using activity mapping on a neighbourhood street in Kigali, Rwanda, this paper explores the relationship between public space and quality of life before and during Covid-19 lockdown. The research found that neighbourhood streets are increasingly becoming popular for recreational activities, and hence more valuable to users. This positive sensory experience, at a time when the pandemic preys on public life in urban areas, shines new light on the notion of street as public space.