Access to Public Open Spaces for Children in Nairobi City County, Kenya
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Date
2025-11
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Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
The inclusion of access to public spaces in the Sustainable Development Goals has placed
responsibility on governments particularly in rapidly urbanizing countries like Kenya, to
ensure its citizens have access to secure public spaces. Access to public spaces has been
cited as one factor that influences levels of physical activity especially among children.
Neighbourhood walkability and pedestrianism has been encouraged to improve public
health. Thus, this study examined access to public open spaces for children in Nairobi City
County. The objectives of this study were to assess the planning, design, and development
of these spaces; investigate the functionality of walkways and playgrounds; and evaluate
the effectiveness of governance and management arrangements in facilitating children's
access to these open spaces. The research is grounded in the theories of political ecology,
ecological models of physical activity, neighbourhood concepts, and urban design. A
survey research design was used, incorporating questionnaires, key informant interviews
(KIIs), focus group discussions (FGDs), observational guides, and Geographic Information
System (GIS) technology. Six neighbourhoods in Nairobi were sampled: high-income
(Lavington and Loresho), middle-income (Buruburu and Nairobi West), and low-income
(Huruma and Kibera). A sample of 406 children, parents, and other open space users
participated in the study.
Findings reveal disparities in the availability and quality of public open spaces across
different socio-economic areas. In low-income neighbourhoods like Huruma and Kibera,
public space provision is inadequate, leading to environmental degradation and safety
concerns. Middle-income areas such as Buruburu face overcrowding, vendor
encroachments, and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure. In contrast, high-income areas
like Lavington and Loresho offer better resources but still experience challenges, including
incomplete pedestrian infrastructure and safety risks. Pedestrian infrastructure was a key
issue. In low-income areas, walkways were poorly maintained or absent, with few traffic calming measures. In middle- and high-income areas, pedestrian infrastructure was better
but still incomplete. Functionality assessments of open spaces revealed vendor
encroachments and limited amenities like benches and signage, further reducing usability,
especially in low-income areas. Governance and management structures were also a
significant factor. Privately managed spaces, like Jaffrey’s Sports Club, demonstrated more
efficient decision-making and better maintenance, while city-managed spaces suffered
from bureaucratic delays and underfunding.
In conclusion, this study highlights the urgent need for more inclusive urban planning,
improved pedestrian infrastructure, and more efficient governance models to ensure
children have safe, accessible spaces for recreation and physical activity. Addressing these
disparities is essential for achieving the targets of SDG 11.7 and creating a more inclusive,
equitable urban environment in Nairobi City.
Description
A Thesis Submitted in Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Planning and Management in the School of Engineering and Architecture of Kenyatta University. October 2025
Supervisors
Caleb Mireri
Paul Aloyo