Landscape values and place dependence within the urban parkettes of Kigali City, Rwanda

Abstract

Cities often lack accessible green spaces, limiting opportunities for residents to connect with their surroundings. Urban parkettes – mini or pocket parks – provide small but vital spaces that deliver recreational, aesthetic, biodiversity, and environmental benefits, while supporting place dependence among users. Yet, few studies in the African context examine how landscape values shape place dependence within these spaces. This exploratory study investigates parkettes in the Central Business District of Kigali City. It analyses user perceptions of landscape values, examines relationships between these values and place dependence, identifies the most influential values, and reviews key constructs of place dependence alongside spatial attributes of the parkettes. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining surveys of 185 on-site respondents, 13 interviews, and field investigations through photography and mapping. Findings reveal varying landscape spatial attributes with sizes ranging from 382 m² to 6,034 m², with total parkette green network of 11,124 m². Regression analysis identified air quality, recreational, and therapeutic values as significant predictors of place dependence, while economic value was least important. Correlation analysis revealed moderate positive associations between landscape values and place dependence. The study recommends enhancing place quality through parkette naming, signage, shade trees, bollards, and small shops to improve user satisfaction and place dependence outcomes. A conceptual framework linking principles, place quality, place expectations, and outcomes is proposed to guide future research. Findings offer actionable insights for policymakers and urban planners to create people-centred urban green spaces that strengthen attachment and encourage regular use.