Understanding what informal settlements are and why they exist
Informal settlements, also known as slums or shantytowns, are areas in cities or rural areas that contain makeshift housing structures, lack basic sanitation services and infrastructure, and are typically considered illegal. These settlements are often found in developing countries with limited economic resources and weak governance institutions. Informal settlements are complex phenomena that arise from numerous factors, including poverty, inequality, and rapid urbanization.
Introduction
Informal settlements are a common sight in developing countries, and they continue to grow at an alarming rate. According to estimates by the United Nations, over a billion people worldwide live in informal settlements. These settlements are often considered illegal and are not recognized by the government or any official authorities. Despite their illegality, they are an essential part of the urban landscape, and understanding their existence is critical to developing solutions for improving the living conditions of their residents. In this article, we will explore what informal settlements are and why they exist.
What are informal settlements?
Informal settlements are areas that are characterized by low-quality housing structures, informal land tenure, and a lack of adequate infrastructure. These structures are typically made from various materials such as plastic, mud, or scrap metal. They lack proper foundations and are usually built on land without permission from the authorities. As a result, they’re typically vulnerable to damage from weather conditions such as heavy rainfall, wind, and fire.
Why do informal settlements exist?
Informal settlements exist as a result of multifaceted and interconnected factors. The primary driving force behind the creation of informal settlements is poverty. The majority of people who live in informal settlements are low-income earners who cannot afford to pay for formal housing. As a result, they build and live in makeshift structures to avoid the high costs of formal housing.
Another factor that contributes to the growth of informal settlements is rapid urbanization. As cities continue to grow, the demand for housing increases, and the cost of formal housing rises as a result. This, coupled with the fact that formal housing is often located far from the city center, pushes people to settle in informal settlements that are more conveniently located.
Finally, weak governance institutions and ineffective land-use policies play a significant role in the growth of informal settlements. Many governments are unable to address the issue of informal settlements effectively. As a result, they often turn a blind eye to their existence, further fueling the growth of these settlements.
Examples of informal settlements
The Kibera slums in Nairobi, Kenya, are one of the most notable examples of informal settlements. The Kibera slums cover an area of about 2.5 square kilometers and are home to over a million people. The slums lack basic infrastructure, such as clean water, sanitation, and electricity. The inhabitants of Kibera live in overcrowded conditions and are often exposed to diseases due to the lack of proper sanitation services.
Another example is the Rocinha favela in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Rocinha favela is one of the largest in Brazil, covering an area of around 70 hectares. The favela lacks proper sanitation services, and most of its residents live in cramped, unsanitary conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, informal settlements are a result of various factors, including poverty, rapid urbanization, and weak governance institutions. These settlements are home to over a billion people worldwide and are an essential part of the urban landscape. Understanding why informal settlements exist is critical to developing solutions to improve the living conditions of their residents. To address this issue, governments must consider policies that aim to provide affordable formal housing, improve infrastructure, and promote inclusive economic growth.
