RURAL AND URBAN SETTLEMENTS 1.1 - NSC Geography - Question 1 - 2023 - Paper 2

Rural and urban settlements are linked to economic activities, demographic patterns, land use planning, and social services available in each area.

The situation of a settlement refers to its location concerning surrounding settlements, geographical features, and accessibility to resources and transport networks.

Economic factors such as access to markets, availability of agricultural land, and proximity to resources significantly influence the location and growth of rural settlements.

The settlement can be characterized based on its spatial organization, land use functions, and integration into the surrounding landscape.

The shape of the settlement is often determined by coastal geography, leading to linear development along the shoreline, efficient resource utilization, and adaptation to environmental conditions.

Factors such as topography, climate, hydrology, and the availability of natural resources play crucial roles in determining settlement shape and distribution.

Settlements are ranked based on size, function, and the number of services available, creating a hierarchy from small villages to large cities.

A micro settlement usually consists of a few homes and essential services, functioning mainly to support the local population.

A small village possesses basic amenities and functions as a social and economic center for surrounding rural areas.

Lower-tier settlements typically provide limited socio-economic functions primarily focused on agriculture and basic community services.

Conurbations offer diverse services and facilities that cater to larger populations, enhancing economic activities and regional development.

An increase in settlements often leads to greater diversity in land use and service provision, affecting urban planning and zoning.

Rural-urban migration is the movement of individuals from rural areas to urban centers, often in search of better economic opportunities and living conditions.

An example of rural-urban migration includes young individuals leaving their agricultural communities to work in factories or urban service industries.

Basic needs such as healthcare services and educational institutions are typically more accessible in urban areas than in rural settings.

1. Develop job training programs in rural areas. 2. Improve infrastructure and access to services in rural towns. 3. Create incentives for industries to establish operations in rural regions.

In the urban fringe, there is typically a mix of urban and rural characteristics, with residential developments alongside agricultural land and developing industries.

1. Agriculture/farming. 2. Light manufacturing or local service industries.

Location in the rural-urban fringe allows businesses to capitalize on proximity to raw materials and a growing urban market while benefiting from lower land costs.

Activity B contributes to local employment opportunities, enhances local economy, and can lead to improved infrastructure and services in the area.

Over the last decade, there has been increased urban sprawl, resulting in the loss of agricultural land and changes in land-use patterns as urban areas expand.

New characteristics include a higher density of housing, makeshift structures, lack of basic services, and the development of informal markets.

1. Influx of rural migrants seeking economic opportunities in urban areas. 2. Lack of affordable housing options in established urban neighborhoods.