Deprivation of Social Amenities
A Case Study of Nairobi City
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48346/IMIST.PRSM/ajlp-gs.v8i1.53803Keywords:
transformative social policy, Private Sector participation, Public Spaces, Green space, access and NairobiAbstract
Context and background:
A home is more than the four walls that offer shelter from the elements. It is also the amenities provided by the neighborhood. Social amenities play a significant role in the psychological and physiological development of any community. These common spaces play a critical role in the upbringing of young ones and the mental health of adults.
With the increase in population and a premium placed on highly accessible parcels, more focus is placed on the return on investment and less on a holistic lifestyle that a neighborhood can provide to a family. Analysis of real estate reveals the privatization of social amenities such as playgrounds and open spaces that were once open and easily available to the residents of Nairobi. Seeing an opportunity, capitalistic-led entities have occupied the vacuum and put a price tag on a basic need.
Goal and objectives:
The goal of this paper is to focus on the provision and accessibility of social amenities within Nairobi City County given its demand for housing, pressure for land, and need for services/ amenities.
Methodology:
To analyse the position of open spaces and recreational grounds), the research paper considers a hybrid qualitative-quantitative research method. The researcher identified recreational spaces in a mix of low and middle-income residential neighborhoods within Nairobi City County. A quantitative analysis will be undertaken, analysing the ratio of the population to the available unit area of the recreational/ open spaces as provided for by local and international standards.
Results:
This analysis provides an indication of the impact of urban pressure in Nairobi City County and depict the true position of social amenities. The study also seeks to understand where public players slipped up and how they can retake control of this vital urban need.
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