This thesis aims to answer the following research question; “How does the Nairobi local government aim to improve the living conditions of the Nairobian informal settlements, especially for...Show moreThis thesis aims to answer the following research question; “How does the Nairobi local government aim to improve the living conditions of the Nairobian informal settlements, especially for marginalised social groups, and what should the purpose of the Nairobi local government be?”. Firstly, this thesis examines the effects of urbanisation on living conditions in informal settlements in and around the Kenyan capital Nairobi. Secondly, this thesis aims to identify and elaborate on the demographic groups that can be seen as marginalised and vulnerable within the context of informal settlements in and around Nairobi. Thirdly, this thesis analyses existing legislation surrounding urban participation and the involvement of members of marginalised groups in government-based projects that rely on participation legislation. The research for this thesis was conducted through a close examination of academic articles and through an analysis of the Kenyan Constitution and other forms of legislation that concern urban participation. This thesis concludes that for most inhabitants of informal settlements in and around Nairobi access to public service is limited, especially for members of the marginalised demographic groups which further worsens their socioeconomic status and opportunities. Furthermore, this thesis concludes that the analysed Mukuru Special Planning Area project of Nairobi City County provides a framework for the urban participation of marginalised communities in the Mukuru informal settlements. Given the Kenyan government's investment in the technology sector and its potential social and socio-economic impact, it is all the more important that marginalised groups are able to express their experiences and opinions through public participation frameworks, since this group is the most vulnerable to the possible exacerbation of socio-economic gaps between different socioeconomic groups and city districts.Show less
Social mobility has acquired expansive interest from the academic literature. Nevertheless, there are numerous components of social mobility and methodologies that have not received the same level...Show moreSocial mobility has acquired expansive interest from the academic literature. Nevertheless, there are numerous components of social mobility and methodologies that have not received the same level of attention. This research paper combines various poorly researched aspects of social mobility to establish an introductory and exploratory foundation for novel research studies. In so doing, it aims to examine the applicability of social mobility theories and models to a non-Western setting: Nairobi, Kenya and open up new opportunities and directions for social mobility research. Using spatial analysis research, this paper shows that indeed there are patterns and variations that differ in significance for social mobility in Nairobi compared to the suggestions of the existing literature. It, therefore, indicates the need for additional research of social mobility using new lenses and methods.Show less
