Colonial Segregation Impact on Nairobi and Dar es Salaam

Core Concepts

The author highlights how the colonial legacy of racial segregation continues to impact the urban landscapes of Nairobi and Dar es Salaam, affecting the lives of their residents to this day.

Abstract

The content delves into the enduring effects of colonial city planning on Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. Both cities still bear the marks of racial segregation from their past, with distinct disparities between affluent areas and informal settlements. The narrative explores how historical injustices have shaped present-day urban inequalities, reflecting on issues of race, class, and economic exploitation that persist despite independence.

Stats

Today Dar es Salaam is one of the fastest-growing cities globally, projected to reach 13.4 million people by 2035. Nairobi's population has doubled since 1986. In Kenya during colonial times, five-sixths of public funds for roads were allocated to European areas. An average of 20% to 30% of Kenyan salaries are taxed regardless of income bracket. Three-quarters of Dar es Salaam's population currently reside in informal settlements.

Quotes

"East African cities need to radically reimagine for whom cities are meant. Is Nairobi, for example, still a colonial city? Is it still a ‘Green City in the Sun,’ or has it lost that title?" - Amina Yasin "We need to start changing that narrative." - Gwamaka Lucas "But we can’t make the same mistakes with old Dar es Salaam; the new areas must be more inclusive." - Anonymous City Planner

Key Insights Distilled From

Ghosts of colonial segregation haunt Nairobi and Dar es Salaam - New African Magazine

by New African at newafricanmagazine.com 04-08-2021

https://newafricanmagazine.com/25738/

Deeper Inquiries

How can modern urban planning address and rectify the lingering effects of colonial segregation?

Modern urban planning can address and rectify the lingering effects of colonial segregation by implementing inclusive policies that prioritize equitable access to resources, services, and opportunities for all residents. This includes revisiting zoning laws that perpetuate racial or economic divides, promoting mixed-income housing developments, investing in infrastructure in historically marginalized areas, and actively involving communities in the decision-making process. By acknowledging the historical injustices of colonial-era city planning and working towards creating more integrated and inclusive spaces, modern urban planners can help dismantle the legacy of segregation.

What role does political corruption play in perpetuating urban inequalities in East African cities?

Political corruption plays a significant role in perpetuating urban inequalities in East African cities by diverting resources away from marginalized communities towards affluent or politically connected areas. Corrupt practices such as embezzlement, bribery, nepotism, and favoritism result in uneven development where certain neighborhoods receive preferential treatment while others are neglected. This leads to disparities in access to basic services like healthcare, education, water supply, sanitation facilities, and infrastructure improvements. Additionally, corrupt officials may engage in land grabbing or misuse public funds for personal gain instead of investing them back into community development projects.

How can inclusive development strategies be implemented to create more equitable urban spaces?

Inclusive development strategies can be implemented to create more equitable urban spaces by prioritizing community participation, social inclusion, and sustainable growth initiatives. This involves engaging with local residents to understand their needs and aspirations for their neighborhoods; fostering partnerships between government agencies, private sector stakeholders,and civil society organizations; promoting affordable housing options for low-income families; improving access to quality educationand healthcare services; enhancing public transportation systems; revitalizing public spacesfor recreational activities; supporting small businesses through microfinance programs;and enforcing anti-corruption measures within city governance structures.By adopting a holistic approach that addresses social,economic,and environmental dimensions ofurban inequality,inclusive developmentstrategiescan help build vibrant,resilient,and cohesiveurban communitieswhereall residents have equalopportunities toparticipateinthe socio-economic lifeofthecity