| Name: | Description: | Size: | Format: | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12.81 MB | Adobe PDF |
Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
The rapid urbanization of African cities has intensified economic
disparities, leading to residential segregation and inadequate housing conditions. This study examines indoor thermal comfort in the
Mafalala neighborhood of Maputo, Mozambique, highlighting the
severe impact of poor housing on residents’ well-being. For the first
time, indoor temperature and humidity were measured and thermal comfort was assessed based on data collected from five dwellings during two campaigns in 2023. Results reveal significant
thermal discomfort, particularly during the hot season. The widespread use of galvanized steel sheets for roofing and some walls
exacerbates indoor temperatures, with some dwellings reaching up
to 49°C during hot spells. While concrete block dwellings provide
higher thermal inertia, they remain vulnerable due to poor insulation and ventilation. Using the Adaptive Comfort Model and
Physiological Equivalent Temperature to assess thermal comfort
and physiological stress, the analysis shows that dwellings are
uncomfortable most of the time, exposing residents to moderate
to extreme heat stress. Findings highlight the need for materials
with higher thermal inertia, enhancing insulation, adequate ventilation, and shading solutions.
Description
Keywords
Indoor thermal comfort Adaptive comfort model Physiological equivalent Temperature Informal settlements Maputo
Pedagogical Context
Citation
Correia, E., & Delgado Henriques, C. (2025). Indoor thermal comfort in informal settlements: a case study of Mafalala, Maputo. African Geographical Review, [online first]. https://doi.org/10.1080/19376812.2025.2520775
Publisher
Taylor & Francis