ABSTRACT
Human settlements in most developing countries, particularly in Africa, have been shaped and reshaped by massive urbanisation. The resultant effect of this is a huge proliferation of informal settlements, especially in big cities. Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is no exception to this phenomenon. This chapter unpacks the risks that emanate from informal settlements in urban spaces in light of the universal goal to achieve sustainable cities. The extent of the threats to the economy, particularly the tourism sector, is visited in an attempt to proffer possible strategies and policies to address the situation. In presenting the informal settlements risks, the chapter examines the socioeconomic and political factors that exacerbate the risks and undermine efforts to address settlements’ informality in Kenya. The risks associated with informal settlements encapsulate health hazards, crime and instability, and may stifle and undermine efforts to boost cities’ economies. The chapter aims to contribute to practice and theory by highlighting prospects and practicable strategies for better human settlement development that curbs threats to tourism such as poor hygiene, crime, poor infrastructure to support tourism and other development potentials.
