At SDI Kenya, we believe that the voices of those closest to the challenges of urban slum living are essential to shaping inclusive cities. This blog serves as a platform where staff, community members, and partners collaborate to share diverse perspectives — covering pressing issues, showcasing transformative initiatives, and highlighting innovative research that drives our mission.
From grassroots-led solutions to climate resilience to the power of data in advocacy, our posts reflect the lived experiences, expertise, and collective efforts shaping a brighter future for Kenya’s urban communities. Dive in to explore the stories that inspire action and amplify the voices of change-makers on the ground.
Today, despite obstacles, Kibera is a hub of resilience and creativity, with communities—particularly the youth—actively working to address issues like housing, climate change, and social inequality through initiatives like artivism.
In this blog, Joseph Kimani examines the pervasive violence in slums, framing it as a form of structural violence inflicted upon marginalized communities. He argues that the normalization of violence in these areas, characterized by crime and oppression, impacts the health and wellbeing of vulnerable residents, who find themselves trapped in a cycle of deprivation. However, he emphasizes that this violence is not inevitable; it is a consequence of systemic inequalities and inadequate state responses.
Today, despite obstacles, Kibera is a hub of resilience and creativity, with communities—particularly the youth—actively working to address issues like housing, climate change, and social inequality through initiatives like artivism.
A study by the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Slum Dwellers International, and Muungano Wa Wanavijiji explored the enablers and barriers to strengthening capacity among community researchers in Mathare and Mukuru informal settlements. Focusing on Mathare, which houses approximately 300,000 residents across four wards, the study offers insights into effective engagement strategies for community researchers in data collection. Key issues include the challenges posed by poor housing, inadequate healthcare access, and limited resources in these marginalized areas.
A study conducted by the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Slum Dwellers International, and Muungano Wa Wanavijiji explored the enablers and barriers to capacity strengthening among community researchers in Mathare and Mukuru informal settlements. Engaging 28 community researchers, the study uncovered key insights into effective participation in data collection processes. Mathare Valley, one of Kenya’s oldest and largest informal settlements with around 300,000 residents, faces significant challenges, including poor housing and limited access to healthcare and basic needs.
Kamila Gojobe from Muungano wa Wanavijiji highlights a workshop organized by Shack Dwellers International Kenya and Muungano wa Wanavijiji, supported by ARISE and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. The meeting brought together community co-researchers from Mukuru and Mathare to discuss how to ensure meaningful participation in research and maximize benefits for their communities. This community-led approach emphasizes the importance of integrating the unique perspectives of those most affected by the issues being studied.
Kisumu Waste Pickers Welfare Association (KIWAPWA) is a consortium of waste pickers within Kisumu County, and one the networks of Muungano wa Wanavijiji movement.
The One World Community Building Summit 2024 was a unique event that provided an opportunity for various partners to explore different strategies for building strong communities through advocacy, utilizing the Community Spaces platform as a tool for online advocacy and solidarity.
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