Building Inclusive Cities: Migrants’ Livelihood Strategies in African Primate Cities

Cities attract migrants as they hope to find increased livelihood opportunities, better life, safety, and access to basic urban services. This paper explores various livelihood options of early migrants in primate cities and how they access urban services as a measure of inclusion. Data on migrants’ socio-demographic characteristics, their livelihood options, and their ability to access selected urban services were collected through mixed methods. Specifically, the study employed the use of questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and field observations. Quantitative data from primary sources was computed using SPSS and results were presented in the form of simple tables, charts, and figures. The results of the hypothesis test indicated a statistically significant relationship between the livelihood options that migrants engage in and their sense of belonging in the study area. Qualitative data from interviews was presented in descriptive narration. Findings reveal a male dominance in the early migrant population who engage in various livelihood options such as informal water vending, iron scrap collection, and local tea hawking. These livelihoods are considered very relevant to the host communities and the migrants themselves take pride in their livelihood as they view it as a means of lawful earnings. Migrants’ length of stay in host communities was found to serve as an anchor and a key factor in determining inclusion in terms of access to basic services like health, education, and banking services.