Assessing the impact of inadequate housing facilities on the residents in informal settlements: a case study of Katanga Slum(V-Village) in Kawempe division, Kampala district.

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of inadequate housing facilities on residents of Katanga Slum in Kawempe Division, Kampala District. Employing a mixed- methods approach, primary data were gathered via a structured survey administered to a targeted sample of 385 households, yielding 104 completed responses (27.0% response rate). Respondents ranged across age groups predominantly 26–45 years and exhibited near gender parity. Quantitative analysis comprised descriptive statistics, cross- tabulations, and non- parametric tests to examine housing typologies, service access, barriers, and proposed solutions. Thematic insights were inferred qualitatively from response patterns. Despite long- term residency (>6 years), most households occupy temporary or semi- permanent structures, with permanent housing rare. Access to basic services (water, sanitation, electricity) is largely moderate across all household sizes. Affordability and insufficient infrastructure emerged as dominant constraints (over 60% of respondents), compounded by legal insecurity fewer than 10% hold formal land tenure, correlating with frequent eviction threats. Economic motives (employment opportunities, affordable rent) drive settlement decisions. Residents prioritize affordable housing schemes, enhanced public services, and land regularization. Government- led infrastructure investments and participatory planning forums are viewed as the most effective strategies.