Exploring Urban Green Space Visitation Patterns in Informal Settlement. A Case of Dandora, Nairobi County

Abstract

The utilization and visitation patterns of Urban Green Spaces (UGS) by users and visitors are inextricably tied to the satisfaction and willingness derived from these spaces. In essence, the positive experiences and levels of satisfaction individuals garner from UGS significantly influence their patterns of usage and frequency of visits. However, few details of this relationship have been studied on matters UGS in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study investigates the relationship between demographic characteristics and visitation patterns of residents to UGS in slum dwelling areas using Dandora as case study. Survey research design was adopted as a method of investigation using a sample frame of 100. Stratified and simple random sampling technique was used in issuing the household questionnaires.  The demographic information analysis reveals a gender-balanced respondent pool, with a predominant youth population thirty to forty years (30-40 years old), largely educated up to secondary level, and primarily self-employed. The majority of respondents have been residents for one to ten years (1-10 years), mainly in Phase two (II) and four (IV) of Dandora. A significant proportion eighty-four percent (84%) of respondents visit UGS, citing weekly visits forty-one percent (41%) and daily visits thirty-four percent (34%) as the most common frequencies. In contrast, sixteen percent 16% do not visit UGS primarily due to concerns about insecurity and other reasons. The study employs a multinomial regression model to examine the relationship between socio-demographic characteristics and frequency of UGS visitation. The results indicate a significant relationship, with place of residence being a key factor influencing visitation frequency. Specifically, residents in Phase II show a significant impact on daily and weekly visitation, while residents in Phase III and IV influence monthly visitation. The findings suggest that socio-demographic factors especially place of residence where there are accessible UGS and also resident’s occupation, play a crucial role in influencing residents' UGS visitation patterns. Understanding these relationships can inform urban planning strategies to enhance accessibility and engagement with green spaces in Dandora.