ZEF colloquium: The political ecology and governance of green spaces in Nairobi, Kenya

April 24, 2024 | 11:00 h - 12:00 h

The divsion of Cultural and Political Change (CPC) invites you to a ZEF colloquium.

Topic: The political ecology and governance of green spaces in Nairobi, Kenya

Speaker: Valentine Opanga,  ZEF CPC Junior Researcher

You can join via Zoom: https://uni-bonn.zoom-x.de/j/66296186516?pwd=b0cyRStMMHh6ekp1azFHSnhHMnJ1QT09

Abstract

Urban green spaces are crucial for city liveability, yet global access remains unequal. In developing countries like Kenya, these inequalities are stark. In this colloquium, I share insights from a field study in Nairobi’s Korogocho and Pumwani wards. Drawing from political ecology theory, I analyse historical influences on Nairobi's urban landscape; how competing interests manifest in green space use, control, and management; and the motivations driving green space development in urban slums.

Valentine Opanga is a doctoral candidate and junior researcher affiliated with the Group Cultural and Political Change at the Center for Development Research, University of Bonn.