An enumeration and mapping of informal settlements in Kisumu, Kenya, implemented by their inhabitants

Abstract

This paper describes an enumeration of all households living in informal settlements in Kisumu, Kenya, implemented by their inhabitants and supported by savings groups, the Kenyan Homeless People’s Federation (Muungano wa Wanvijiji), of which they are members, and Pamoja Trust, a Kenyan NGO. This work included collecting data on each household, numbering each structure and providing photo identity cards to each household. It also included the preparation of detailed maps defining the boundaries of all house structures along with features of the site, with a level of accuracy and detail needed for upgrading and providing secure tenure. The data from the enumeration helped inform the residents of each settlement about their needs, and supported their collective discussions about priorities. The enumeration in Kisumu is part of a larger enumeration and mapping programme, both within Kenya and in many other nations, supported by organizations and federations of the urban poor.