Migration and the structure of population in Nairobi.

Abstract

Before the 1962 census, data on urbanization in Kenya was most inadequate. In 1962, population of the 2 cities with population of 100,000 or more, Nairobi and Mombasa, was 69% of the total for all urban settlements of 2000 or more. By 1969 their population had increased to 70% of all urban areas. Growth of Nairobi is 26% due to immigration from adjacent areas, the rest to extension of the city boundaries. This extension of boundaries has not only increased the number of different tribal groups living in the city, it has also affected the total of various groups formerly found there. Under the old boundaries Asians formed well over 1/3 of the total population; The extended boundaries have also changed density patterns, incorporating sparsely settled areas and even some coffee plantations. Analysis of density patterns shows that the low-cost areas are becoming so crowded that living conditions are deteriorating. Less than 29% of the city population is made up of children. Instead the male of working age is dominant, the result of migration looking for work. This growth pattern is creating many problems. The young men migrate to the high density areas, increasing the congestion. There is a lack of low-cost housing, especially housing suitable for families. The edges of the city, which seem most promising for expansion, are made up of prime agricultural land. Rural stagnation is increasing the migration problem. Total planning is needed to solve these situations.