Kibera, Nairobi (Shanty Town Management)

Where is Kibera located?

Nairobi, Kenya.

How many people are estimated to live in Kibera?

Estimates range from 250,000 to 300,000, with some sources suggesting up to 500,000.

What is the approximate size of Kibera?

2.5 square kilometers.

What is Kibera's population density?

Approximately 100,000 people per square kilometer.

What is the main driver of population growth in Kibera?

Rural-urban migration driven by poverty in rural areas.

What is the urbanization rate in Nairobi?

4.2% per year, one of the fastest in Africa.

Why is there a lack of affordable housing in Nairobi?

Rising rental prices far exceed the incomes of many rural migrants.

What percentage of Nairobi's population lives in informal settlements?

Approximately 60%.

Why is there government neglect in Kibera?

Kibera is considered illegal occupation of land, which restricts government investment in infrastructure.

What are houses in Kibera typically made of?

Mud-walled with corrugated iron roofs.

What is the average size of a dwelling in Kibera?

About 10 square meters.

What percentage of Kibera has access to electricity?

Only about 20%.

How do residents access clean water in Kibera?

Through standpipes managed by vendors, often sold at high prices.

What is the toilet situation in Kibera?

One toilet per 1,000 residents, leading to poor hygiene and health risks.

What health challenges are common in Kibera?

Cholera, typhoid, tuberculosis, and high rates of HIV/AIDS (15% of the population).

What is the state of education in Kibera?

Schools are overcrowded and under-resourced, with many children not attending.

What are the main challenges Kibera faces?

Overcrowding, poor sanitation, lack of infrastructure, and crime.

What makes transportation and emergency response difficult in Kibera?

Most roads are unpaved and narrow.

How does poor sanitation affect water supplies in Kibera?

Open defecation and sewage trenches contaminate water sources.

What kind of crime is prevalent in Kibera?

Theft, gang violence, and sexual violence, particularly against women.

What government program was introduced to upgrade Kibera?

The Kenya Slum Upgrading Programme (KENSUP), launched in 2004 with UN-Habitat.

What improvements did KENSUP introduce?

Permanent housing, sanitation, clean water, and roads.

What are the names of NGOs actively helping in Kibera?

Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) and Kibera School for Girls.

What type of sanitation improvements have been made?

Installation of community toilets and biogas toilets to manage waste.

What innovative lighting solutions have been introduced?

Solar lights have been installed to reduce reliance on kerosene lamps.

What employment programs have been introduced in Kibera?

Youth Empowerment Programs providing training in IT skills, carpentry, and electronics.

What improvements have been seen due to water and sanitation projects?

Reduced waterborne diseases and improved community hygiene.

What are the main limitations of housing projects in Kibera?

Upgraded apartments are too expensive for many residents, forcing some back into slums.

What security measures have helped reduce crime?

Street lighting and community policing.

What are the main barriers to sustainable development in Kibera?

Land tenure issues and government neglect.

What has been the role of NGOs in Kibera's development?

They have provided essential services like clean water, sanitation, and education.

What is required for long-term improvement in Kibera?

Government intervention, secure land rights, and inclusive urban planning.

What strategy is crucial for transforming Kibera?

Public-private partnerships and stronger urban planning policies.