Drivers of Human Activities Carried Out in Urban Green Spaces of Dandora Estates, Nairobi County

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.