Understanding Urban Environment Problems In The Newly Urbanizing Areas Of Kenya, A Case Of Narok Town

Abstract

Abstract: Like many other countries in developing world, Kenya has been experiencing rapid urbanization. Although urbanization is associated with social and economic transformations, the trend is also associated with an increase in urban environment problems. The environment is considered as the gear to economic activities and the well fare of human beings. It is therefore important to understand the environmental consequences that comes with urbanization so as to safe guard the economy and the well fare of human beings living within and without the urban area. The study was conducted in Narok Town with a major focus of understanding urban environmental problems that the newly urbanizing areas in Kenya are facing. The study was conducted in five areas that make up Narok Town which include Lenana, Total, Majengo, London and the town center. The study was conducted using descriptive survey where questionnaires were administered to the respondents who were selected randomly to identify urban environmental problems in Narok Town. Observation and was also done in the study to identify urban environmental problems in Narok Town. Data that was gathered from the questionnaire was analyzed using SPSS Package version 20.0 and presented in forms of figurers and text. Data from observation was analyzed qualitatively and presented in form of text. The findings of the study indicate that Narok town is experiencing urban environmental problems which include development of slums, inadequate drainage systems.

Index Terms: Rapid urbanization; Urbanization, Newly urbanizing world; Urban environment; Urban environment problems; Environmental consequences