Exploring Opportunities for Transforming Laini Saba Ward in Kibera, Nairobi

Abstract

Housing is an essential requirement for every individual, as recognized by the Constitution of Kenya 2010 in article 43 (1) (b), which stipulates that every Kenyan has the right to access adequate housing with a reasonable standard of sanitation. However, the current availability of affordable housing in the country is not commensurate to the ever-increasing population. This has resulted in inadequate housing conditions and the rapid expansion of informal settlements characterized by substandard housing. Currently in Nairobi, more than 60% of the city dwellers live in informal settlements. There have been different efforts to upgrade and improve informal settlements. However, the informal settlements continue to exist due to unmet demand for low-cost housing, economic vulnerability, underpaid work and dislocation caused by conflicts, disasters and climate change. This study explored opportunities towards upgrading Lini Saba ward in Kibera informal settlement by increasing supply of low-cost housing. The study assessed manifestation of informality in a settlement/neighbourhood, profiled characteristics that manifest informality in Laini Saba Ward, identified challenges that arise from informality in Laini Saba Ward and proposed planning interventions that can remedy the identified challenges to deliver sustainable neighbourhoods in Laini Saba Ward. The study made use of survey research design which used both qualitative and quantitative data. The target population for the study included all the households, structure owners, enterprises, institutions, relevant government officers, politicians, and groups within the ward. The study made use of both random and non-random sampling methods. 70 households and 30 enterprises were sampled. The research method employed include: literature review, interviews, observation, photography, Delphi method and mapping. The data was analyzed using Excel, SPSS and GIS. Laini Saba ward being an informal settlement experience a myriad of development challenges. Some of these challenges include: uncoordinated, inadequate and uneven land use distribution, limited job creation opportunities and poor housing which is mainly caused by lack of planning. These challenges have an impact on the living conditions, health and livelihoods of the residents of the ward. These challenges can be addressed through planning to ensure even distribution of land uses, exploring job opportunities within the ward and construction of high-rise low-cost buildings through a joint venture model. Comprehensive settlement upgrading should be done so as to ensure improved social cohesion,

economic benefits, improved public health, safety and wellbeing, environmental stability and will also provide a conducive environment for doing business.