Kakuma Refugee Camp: Humanitarian Urbanism in Kenya's Accidental City

Kenya's Kakuma refugee camp is a large, permanent urban space with businesses, schools, a hospital, and its own court system. Bram J. Jansen's book explores the dynamics of everyday life in such accidental cities, demonstrating how inhabitants can develop a permanent society and identity. It offers insights into managing refugee camps in the global South.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Kenya's Kakuma refugee camp is a remarkable example of a large-scale urban settlement that has emerged as a permanent urban space, housing over 100,000 people from diverse regions across East and Central Africa. While it is officially classified as a "temporary camp," it has evolved into a fully-fledged city, complete with businesses, schools, a hospital, and its own court system. This unique form of urbanization, as argued by Bram J. Jansen, deserves recognition as "accidental cities." Jansen's book, based on extensive ethnographic fieldwork, delves into the dynamics of everyday life in these accidental cities, providing a comprehensive socio-economic portrait that challenges the conventional notion of such spaces as transitory and desolate. Through his research, Jansen demonstrates how the inhabitants of these cities can establish a permanent society and develop a distinct identity.

One of the key insights offered by the book is the challenge of managing refugee camps in the global South and beyond. Jansen highlights the need for more effective strategies to address the social, economic, and humanitarian needs of refugees, recognizing that traditional approaches may not be sufficient in this context. The book provides valuable insights into the complexities of refugee settlement, including the challenges of providing adequate housing, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. It also explores the role of local communities and governments in fostering integration and sustainable development within refugee camps.

Kakuma Refugee Camp offers an original perspective on African urbanism, particularly in the context of refugee settlements. It appeals to practitioners and academics across the social sciences, who are interested in social and economic issues that are increasingly at the forefront of contemporary development. The book provides valuable insights into the experiences of refugees and their communities, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities that arise in these complex urban environments.

In conclusion, Kenya's Kakuma refugee camp is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of human beings in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and addressing the unique challenges of urbanization in refugee contexts. Jansen's book, Kakuma Refugee Camp, offers valuable insights into the dynamics of everyday life in accidental cities, providing a holistic socio-economic picture that challenges conventional perceptions and highlights the potential for sustainable development and integration. As we continue to grapple with the global refugee crisis, this book serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, humanitarian workers, and academics seeking to develop more effective strategies for managing refugee camps and promoting the well-being of displaced communities.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 140 x 215 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786991881