Rural Transformation and Changing Rural–Urban Connections in a Dynamic Region in Tanzania: Perspectives on Processes of Inclusive Development

Changing rural–urban connections are made evident in the patterns and dynamics of rural transformations. This study investigates these transformations by presenting data from a particularly dynamic area: Njombe Region in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania. By taking its empirical point of departure in the development of Njombe Town and its rural hinterland, this paper illustrates how such transformations are manifested in this region and how they influence the livelihoods of rural dwellers, including mobility patterns, livelihood diversification and socio-economic mobility. We argue that, even in dynamic regions with apparently positive levels of development and emerging opportunities, local spatial variations and differences in household characteristics and strategies influence the degree to which people can benefit from the positive aspects of changing and increased links between rural and urban areas. Transformations of rural areas have the potential to increase inequalities and encourage processes of transformation that are not entirely inclusive.