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Resilience Pathways of Informal Settlements in Nairobi: Stasis, Decline, Adaptation, and Transformation

Author

Listed:
  • Jan Fransen

    (Erasmus University Rotterdam)

  • Beatrice Hati

    (Erasmus University Rotterdam
    Kenya Hub)

  • Naomi Stapele

    (The Hague University of Applied Sciences)

  • Samuel Kiriro

    (Ghetto Foundation)

  • Rosebella Nyumba

    (Kenya Hub)

Abstract

This study investigates resilience pathways of informal settlements, and their diverse impacts through community-based participatory research in Mathare and Korogocho, Nairobi. Results reveal that resilience pathways were relatively stable in the 1970s and 1980s, declined in the 1990s, and changed towards more adaptive approaches in the 2000s. Each period accommodates a dynamic mix of maladaptive, adaptive, and transformative resilience initiatives. Adaptive resilience initiatives are sustainable and adopt frugal practice to cope with resource constraints, without harming others. Transformative resilience initiatives are rare, as they require a significant shift in societal norms and institutions. The study emphasizes the need to recognize the dynamics and variety of resilience initiatives in informal settlements. The study therefore recommends (1) recognizing and supporting adaptive and transformative resilience initiatives; (2) recognizing the dynamics and variety of resilience initiatives of informal settlements; and (3) addressing inhibiting institutional settings of informal settlements.

Suggested Citation

  • Jan Fransen & Beatrice Hati & Naomi Stapele & Samuel Kiriro & Rosebella Nyumba, 2024. "Resilience Pathways of Informal Settlements in Nairobi: Stasis, Decline, Adaptation, and Transformation," The European Journal of Development Research, Palgrave Macmillan;European Association of Development Research and Training Institutes (EADI), vol. 36(2), pages 355-380, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:eurjdr:v:36:y:2024:i:2:d:10.1057_s41287-023-00605-w
    DOI: 10.1057/s41287-023-00605-w
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