Prof Magidimisha-Chipungu
Professor Hope Magidimisha-Chipungu is a distinguished academic in the Discipline of Town and Regional Planning at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). She is an NRF-rated researcher and holds the South African Research Chair Initiative (SARChI) Chair in Inclusive Cities, focusing on spatial justice, inclusive urban development, climate change, smart cities, and transformative planning. She also serves as a National Planning Commissioner in the Presidency of South Africa, contributing to national strategic planning and policy advisory processes.
She made history as the first Black South African-born woman to be appointed as a Full Professor in Town and Regional Planning in South Africa, marking an important milestone in the transformation of the built environment professions.
Professor Magidimisha-Chipungu plays several leadership roles in professional planning institutions. She is the Alternate Chairperson of the South African Council for Planners (SACPLAN) and Chairperson of the SACPLAN Transformation Committee, where she promotes transformation within the planning profession. She also serves as a City Planning Commissioner for the eThekwini Municipality, advising the Executive Committee and municipal councillors on strategic planning matters. In addition, she previously served on the COGTA Advisory Committee, advising the Office of the Premier in KwaZulu-Natal on spatial equity and development planning.
Internationally, she serves on the Board of the International Society of City and Regional Planners (ISOCARP) and leads the Young Planning Professionals Programme as its Director. She also served as Co-General Rapporteur for the 57th ISOCARP World Planning Congress in Doha.
Professor Magidimisha-Chipungu has published over 100 academic works, supervised more than 50 postgraduate students, and serves as Senior Editor of the Journal of Climate Interaction (Taylor & Francis, UK) and Chief Editor of the Journal of Inclusive Cities and Built Environment. Her work has earned her several awards, including the UKZN Vice-Chancellor’s Research Award and recognition by The Planner Magazine (RTPI, UK) as one of the Most Influential Women in Planning in 2021 and 2024.
