Consolidating Research on Population Dynamics and Health of the Urban Poor in Sub-Saharan Africa: An Overview

Abstract

Though the least urbanized globally, sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is rapidly urbanizing, with its urban population projected to reach 55% by 2050. While cities continue to offer greater amenities, better employment opportunities and better services, they also concentrate risks and hazards for health, which is exacerbated by majority of urban dwellers living in slums or slum-like conditions that are detrimental to their living and health conditions. Understanding specific health and livelihood conditions of slum dwellers require adequate data at local levels often lacking through national surveys, which mostly provide national indicators, and blur inter- and intra-sub-group inequities. The papers in this series use unique datasets mostly aggregated at local levels to portray the specific living and health conditions in slum areas. They collectively contribute rich evidence for policy and action in the important search for pathways to reduce health inequities and improve living conditions among the urban poor in Kenya and across SSA.