The provision of infrastructural facilities and their effect on spatial growth and development of urban centres. A case study of Busia town.

Abstract

Urbanization in developing countries is not unique. However the rapid pace of urbanization together wi th population growth, posses great challenges to most urban areas. The increasing population and demand for more services, has outpaced the ability of local authorities to provide or extent supportive services that should go ,', hand in hand with urbanisation. Roads, water, electricity, etc which make the urban system functional and which to some extend influence the rate and trend of urban development are therefore lacking. These problems are likely to increase given that little is being done to alleviate the existing crisis. The study on Busia attempts a cri tical examination of the forces behind the spatial growth of the town. The study focuses on infrastructure to establish the intricate relationship between infrastructure and the structure of the town. The study also seeks to establish other factors "besides infrastructure that playa vital role in influencing urban growth. In seeking the explanation for the spatial expansion of Busia Town, the study established that roads play a crucial role in influencing the structure and pattern of urban growth. It was also quoted that the institutional weakness (local authority) fail to provide effective tools that could guide the trend of development. The study has come up with a number of recommendations aimed at both alleviating the existing urban growth problems and strengthening the urban management system. The study proposes the creation of a traffic diversion route, preparation of a land use plan and involvement of the community in urban projects. It is hoped that if these recommendations are implemented, sound and sustainable , . , urban development in Busia town can be achieved.