Urbanisation Challenges in Kenya
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Date
2006
Authors
Mireri, C.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
School of Environmental Studies and Human Sciences,
Kenyatta University
Abstract
Kenya has witnessed rapid rate of urbanisation (about 6%) since
independence in 1963. The independence guaranteed people freedom of
movement, which spurred high rate of rural urban migration. Against
the rapid urban growth the country has registered deterioration of institutional
and physical infrastructure. As a result, Kenyan urban centres are characterised
with expansive informal settlements; poor water and sanitation infrastructure
and services. Also, the 1990s ushered in increasing incidences of poverty, a
situation that threatens to heighten in future. Currently, over 60% of Kenyans
live below the poverty line (SID, 2005).
Theurbanisation in Kenya is explained in large measure by the growth pole theory.
Further, the urban development policies in the country are founded on the theory.
Kenyan urban hierarchy is characterised with one metropole (Nairobi city)
together with a limited number of major urban centres (Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret,
Nakuru and Thika). The various strategies used by the government to catalyse
urban development have largely failed. Therefore, there is need to rethink urban
development strategies to arrest the inevitable crises that are likely to ensure
following policy failures and strategies. This chapter explores the following issues:
theoretical and policy perspective; demographic profile; planning, infrastructure
and services and institutional framework. _
Description
Book Chapter