Abstract:
Green spaces are becoming a dwindling resource in the urban areas of many
developing countries where unprecedented rapid urbanization is taking place.
The serene and quite areas of the urban environment are being depleted with
ever-increased human interference even in the protected areas. The case of
Dandora Estates of Nairobi County, which this paper focuses on, presents an
interesting diversity of activities that have invaded the otherwise aesthetic and
beautiful scene of the urban space, and the situation could be worsened if drastic
actions are not taken. This paper dwells on the human activities that dominate
the urban green spaces of Dandora, as well as the drivers of them being
undertaken there. It brings out these activities in by engaging with the household
heads and those found undertaking activities within the UGS. The results show
that 84% of the residents who visit UGS in Dandora were driven by;
affordability (absence of entry charges). 16% of the residents who do not visit
UGS are driven away by majorly due to the insecurity in the area. The finding
established that there are several human activities that are practised in and
around green spaces in Dandora. They were categorized into three, social,
economic, and environmental activities. The study recommended the following:
Development of UGS policy and management plans. There is a need to develop
an effective and articulate UGS policy framework and management plans for
UGS planning, governance and management that will be reviewed and updated
after every 3-5 years; Development of UGS policies, regulations, and standards;
The county government in collaboration with the police department should
invest in enhancing and providing security through installation of street lights in
order to prevent crimes.
