Policy and Planning Implications for Temporary Settlements Hosting Internally Displaced Persons ( IDPs) In Kenya: A Case Study of Afraha Stadium IDP Camp

Abstract

Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are increasing becoming a challenge to Kenya. Whether displaced by conflict, disaster or development initiatives, the IDP population is often left to grapple with no basic needs and destroyed livelihoods. The contribution that urban planning can make to elevate, prevent or respond to the needs of the displaced is the gap this research work sought to fill. This research work recognizes that internally displaced persons (IDPs) exist even in countries that are considered peaceful, such as Kenya. The research work also reveals that IDPs existed even before the 2007 post-election violence. The post-election violence only served to bring to prominence the problem facing IDPs which existed from many years. The study objectives were to a. Identify immediate needs of displaced populations and their spatial implications. b. Assess the type and adequacy of response services required by displaced populations. c) Propose a policy and planning framework. The main research methods used include a. A desk review of existing literature. b. Focus Group Discussions c. Face-to- face interviews. d. Observation. e. Photography. Data collected was analysed through spread sheets tabulation. The main findings indicate that a. Kenya has no policy addressing IDPs b. Food, shelter, education, safety and security, and water and sanitation are some of the immediate needs facing IDPs, and they also have spatial implications. These needs are also often not met adequately. Non-governmental agencies at national and national levels were largely involved in response operations. Government of Kenya at the local level also supported the agencies with technical officers such as social workers. This research work goes ahead to propose measures that should be put in place to address the spatial needs of displaced populations through plans and implementation approaches. Such include the setting aside of land to host displaced populations, involvement of local authorities and practitioners in response initiatives involving displaced populations and sectoral minimum standards that need to be applied. Also recommended is the development of a policy on IDPs.