The Economic Dimensions of Slums in the Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana

Abstract

Over half of the population in developing countries lives in slums. Issues of slums happen to be global rather than regional phenomenon hence; various measures have been adopted by several stakeholders to manage its development. Despite the kingpin roles they play in the urban economy, the problems which retard their growth and development within the slums are enormous. Slum dwellers are thus faced with daily eviction threats fuelled by the belief that their existence is detrimental to the continued growth and development of the urban areas. Based on this premise, this survey takes a look at the Economic Dimensions of Slums in the Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana. Findings reveal among others that in-migration is a major cause of slums especially in developing countries. Hence, poverty is another major factor of slum development. The study concludes that for the new paradigm of “cities without slums” to be realistic and achievable, slums should be upgraded rather than subjecting it to evictions and demolishing as the latter will be addressing the effects instead of the problem itself.