A Systematic Review of Urban Green Space Equity and Accessibility in Nairobi, Kenya: Implications for Public Health in Rapidly Urbanising African Contexts

This systematic review addresses the critical public health challenge of equitable access to urban green spaces (UGS) within rapidly urbanising African contexts, using Nairobi, Kenya as a case study. Its objective was to synthesise contemporary evidence on the distribution, accessibility, and health equity implications of UGS in Nairobi. A systematic search was conducted across five academic databases, following PRISMA guidelines, to identify relevant peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2024. The findings reveal pronounced and persistent inequities in UGS provision. Affluent neighbourhoods enjoy significantly greater access to higher quality, maintained green spaces compared to informal settlements and lower-income areas. This spatial disparity correlates with differential health outcomes, limiting opportunities for physical activity, social cohesion, and mitigation of environmental stressors like air pollution and heat for marginalised populations. The review concludes that current urban planning in Nairobi inadequately integrates public health equity, perpetuating a landscape of environmental privilege. This work contributes to evidence-based advocacy for pro-poor urban greening policies. It underscores the urgent need for cities to prioritise equitable UGS access as a fundamental component of urban health infrastructure and sustainable development.