The Koko of Makoko: Resilience and Challenges in Africa’s Floating City

Written by: Daniel Ereyi-Usoh Makoko, often called the “Venice of Africa,” is a unique slum community in Lagos, Nigeria, where a third of its residents live in stilt houses over a lagoon. This vibrant but struggling community, originally a fishing village, has grown into a densely populated area where Yoruba, French, and Egun are spoken, […]

Urbanization and Spread of Slums in Africa: Public Health Implications and Way Forward in Nigeria

A young girl living in a slum drinks from a drum of water

Written by: Daniel Ereyi-Usoh Urbanization in Africa has led to the rapid spread of slums, particularly in major cities. Nigeria, the continent’s most populous country, exemplifies this trend. Slums are characterized by inadequate housing, poor sanitation, and lack of access to basic amenities, posing significant public health challenges and affecting residents’ well-being. Nigeria’s urbanization has […]