In 2024, HealthBridge and partners implemented eight innovative, community-led projects aimed at revitalizing public spaces and enhancing urban living in Vietnam, Nepal, India, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, Niger, and Ghana. Funded by UN-Habitat and Block by Block, these projects focused on fostering social cohesion, supporting local economies, and improving accessibility and health outcomes. Each initiative demonstrated the power of grassroots participation in creating inclusive and sustainable environments, with particular benefits for vulnerable populations such as women, children, and the elderly.

Vietnam and Nepal

In Vietnam, the Chương Dương Shared Space Initiative reimagined a road near Chuong Duong Forest Park into a dynamic community hub. By adding bicycle racks, interactive games, and eco-friendly benches, the project increased public use by 15%, reduced traffic speeds, and encouraged walking and cycling among children. Similarly, Nepal’s Weekly Open Marketplace and Placemaking project transformed urban spaces with small interventions like traditional games and skills exchange programs. These changes enhanced public space usage and strengthened bonds across generations, empowering local communities.

India and Sri Lanka

India’s Neighborhood Farmers Market in Guwahati established a dedicated marketplace for local farmers, equipping them with canopies for weather protection. This boosted daily customer traffic for 20 farmers (15 women and 5 men) and prompted municipal support to expand the initiative citywide. Sri Lanka’s Inclusive Reading Space in Jaffna created a welcoming community hub in Subramaniyam Park, designed with eco-friendly materials and accessible features. The reading space drew families and individuals with disabilities, promoting literacy and inclusivity.

Tanzania and Uganda

In Tanzania, the Lemara Park Revitalization project in Arusha City upgraded a public park with essential amenities such as a toilet, play facilities, and benches. These improvements increased daily park visits, provided low-income residents with a safe recreational space, and ensured sustainability through the employment of a park attendant. In Uganda, the Kasubi Market Children’s Daycare addressed a critical need for childcare among market vendors, especially single mothers. By providing a safe space for about 30 children, the daycare enhanced vendors’ productivity while improving market hygiene and organization.

Niger and Ghana

Niger’s initiative to improve the Karadjé Market addressed the challenges faced by informal fruit and vegetable vendors by introducing display tables. These enhancements improved hygiene and working conditions, benefiting both vendors and customers, with vendors expressing enthusiasm for personalizing their tables. Ghana’s Mmofra Book Stroll promoted literacy and family-friendly engagement through a mobile book installation. The initiative debuted at a national literacy event, reaching 2,500 pupils, and plans to expand to more locations in Accra are underway.

Collectively, these projects illustrate the transformative power of community-driven efforts in reimagining urban spaces. By prioritizing accessibility, inclusivity, and sustainability, these initiatives fostered stronger communities, supported local economies, and improved quality of life across diverse contexts. The successes underscore the universal value of public spaces as platforms for social connection, economic activity, and cultural expression, providing a blueprint for future urban development worldwide.