Exploring climate-health vulnerabilities in Kenya’s largest informal settlement
Research Overview
Kibera, situated approximately 6–7 km from Nairobi’s city centre, is among the largest informal settlements in Africa. It is densely populated and located in lowlands along rivers and floodplains. Residents face overlapping climate-related risks—poor drainage, flood vulnerability, extreme heat, and air and water pollution—compounded by socio-economic marginalization. These conditions shape everyday health outcomes, putting especially women, children, the elderly, and other dependent groups at heightened risk.
Very dense informal settlement in flood-prone river valley near central Nairobi
Kibera is marked by extreme spatial congestion, makeshift housing of metal sheets, mud and timber, narrow alleys, irregular tenure and limited formal infrastructure. Basic services such as water, sanitation, electricity and healthcare are inconsistent or absent. Unemployment and informal livelihoods are widespread, with many households depending on daily earnings. Women face particular challenges due to caregiving responsibilities, unsafe environments and restricted access to essential services.
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