Kenya: Urban Settlements and Development Profile

Abstract

This paper presents a development pro¬file of a sample of urban settlements in Kenya. Kenya is experiencing very rapid population growth, particularly in urban areas. The number and size of urban settlements has grown rapidly in the last 30-40 years, This rapid urbanization generates tremendous development potential and opportunities in the country. It has also generated serious social, economic and spatial challenges.

The paper highlights the development potential and challenges facing urban settlements in Kenya. The development profile of the towns covers economic activities, housing, infrastructure and utilities, transport and governance issues. The paper then concludes by highlighting proposals on the way forward