The Urban Growth and Applied Urban Planning Framework; Case Study

Kakamega Municipality, Kenya

Abstract

Urbanization in Kenyan urban areas; has been rapid and unregulated since 1960s. The main challenge is how to envision urban growth under such unprecedented trends. This paper discusses the urban growth and urban planning framework applied in Kakamega Municipality, Kenya.  Specifically, the study examined historical growth trends, urban planning regulations and policies as well as the urban planning practices in Kakamega Municipality. Content analysis study was conducted and key informant interviews with urban managers and stakeholders recorded. The qualitative and quantitative approaches were applied. Geo-statistical analysis functions were applied for non-spatial and spatial data. High urbanization rate was revealed in Kakamega Municipality. The paper concludes by stating that there is incongruity between applied urban planning framework and the actual practice. The paper recommends review of urban planning regulations and zoning policies to accommodate the contemporary urban dynamics in Kakamega Municipality.