Developing World City (i) Name one city in the developing world that is rapidly growing - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 11B - 2021

The rapid growth of Lagos can be attributed to several factors:

1. Migration: Many people migrate to Lagos from rural areas seeking better employment opportunities, driven by the promise of jobs and urban amenities.

2. Economic Opportunities: As one of Africa's major economic hubs, Lagos offers diverse job opportunities, especially in sectors like finance, technology, and entertainment, which attract a large workforce.

3. Population Growth: The natural increase in population, characterized by higher birth rates, contributes significantly to the city's rapid growth.

4. Infrastructure Development: Continuous investment in infrastructure, including transportation and housing, enables better connectivity and attracts more residents to the city.

5. Globalization: Lagos has become increasingly important in global trade, leading to greater investment and business activities, further supporting population growth.

The rapid growth of Lagos has resulted in various significant problems:

1. Overpopulation: The influx of migrants has led to an unsustainable population density, putting immense pressure on urban resources and services.

2. Inadequate Housing: Many new residents settle in informal settlements, leading to inadequate housing conditions and slum development.

3. Traffic Congestion: With more people comes increased traffic, contributing to severe congestion and long commute times, affecting productivity.

4. Environmental Degradation: Rapid urbanization has resulted in significant environmental issues, including pollution of water bodies and deforestation.

5. Increased Crime Rates: Overpopulation and limited job opportunities can lead to higher crime rates as more individuals resort to illegal activities for survival.

One potential solution to the problems caused by rapid growth in Lagos is the development of affordable housing projects. By increasing the availability of low-cost housing, the government and private sector can address the issue of inadequate housing and reduce the prevalence of slums. This initiative could include:

• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborating with real estate developers to construct affordable housing units.
• Zoning Regulations: Revising zoning laws to allow for denser housing development in existing urban areas.
• Access to Basic Services: Ensuring that these housing projects come with access to essential services such as electricity, water, and sanitation to improve living conditions and promote sustainable urban growth.