GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

What are cities like? Definition Function: The ‘function’ of a city is its purpose or what it is mainly used for. A city’s function can change over time.

Examples of functions can be residential (housing), commercial (retail and business. In the 60, 70s and 80s, this was in the form of markets or a port), financial, tourism, entertainment and leisure.

Figure 1: Place-specific examples of historical city functions for locations within the UK Function Example City

Market/commercial Watford

Docks Bristol

Resort Bournemouth

Manufacturing (steel) Sheffield

Manufacturing (cotton) Leeds

Manufacturing (steel) Port Talbot

Commercial Bristol

Port Cardiff

Case Study Example: Bristol, SW England In the 17th Century, Bristol was home to some of the main collieries (coal mines) in the South West of England. After these mines became nationalised (owned by the government) the collieries went into debt and closed. Bristol also became famous in the 17th and 18th centuries with the wealth and prosperity brought about by the slave trade and the Industrial Revolution. Later, the construction of the Floating Harbour in the 19th centuries solved the problem of boats having to battle with the tidal passage up the Avon Gorge. This, along with Isambard Brunel’s design of the Great Western Railway, which connected Bristol to London, caused the population to grow fivefold in the 19th century. Later, the port migrated downstream to Avonmouth.

Bristol’s heavy reliance on the manufacturing of tobacco and cigarette was one of the iconic changes the city has experienced in its history. Bristol firm Imperial Tobacco closed its last remaining UK factory in 2014. The world's fourth-largest tobacco company, Imperial Tobacco, blamed the closure on falling demand for products and the growth of the black market in the UK and Europe.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

The firm issued a statement that blamed the decision on "declining industry volumes in Europe, impacted by tough economic conditions, increasing regulation and excise, and growth in illicit trade". Unite officer Rhys McCarthy said: "This is shocking news that will have a devastating impact on not only hundreds of workers and their families, but also on the local community.

"We will be giving full support to our members over the two years before the site closes at the latest in March 2016. What we were not expecting was the wholesale closure of the Nottingham site and an end to Imperial Tobacco manufacturing cigarettes in the UK and moving production to eastern Europe."

He added: "We believe that Imperial Tobacco is cynically using the EU directive as cover to dump on UK workers and ship production to low-cost workers in eastern Europe.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

2) What is Urbanisation?

Definitions: Urbanisation: The increase in the proportion of people living in cities. Rates of urbanisation are particularly high in LICs.

World Cities: Cities which have the greatest influence on a global scale because of their financial status and worldwide commercial power e.g. NY, London, Tokyo.

Megacities: Cities with populations of over 10 million people.

The pattern of urbanisation of the world’s cities over time can is shown on the map linked here.

Figure 2a: Map to show cities with over 5 million people in 1955

In 1955, there were only 11 cities across the globe with a population of over 5 million people. These cities included Chicago, NY and Los Angeles (USA), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Paris (France), London (England), Moscow (Russia), Calcutta (India), Shanghai (China) and Osaka-Kobe and Tokyo (Japan). There were no cities containing over 5 million people in any country in Africa or in Oceania.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

Figure 2b: Map to show cities with over 5 million people in 2015.

Since 1955, there has been rapid growth of the cities in Asia. In 2015 there were 38 cities with a population of over 5 million people, compared to 4 in 1955. Most of these rapidly growing cities are in China. Cities on the African continent are also growing quickly. in , Kinshasha in DRC, Khartoum in Sudan and Cairo in Egypt grown since 1955, with populations of 16.1 million, 9.3 million, 6 million and 13.1 million respectively.

Cities in Asia are growing rapidly for many reasons:  Many cities located on the coast are experiencing economic growth due to trade. These cities are more accessible via shipping routes and therefore many cities have grown up around ports.  Improved transport links in EDC cities means that travel to the city is now easier. People are therefore able to reach the city more easily and move there to live.  Rural-to-urban migration common in EDCs as people move to cities in search of a better quality of life. Farming in rural areas is often based on subsistence and quality of life is low. Many people living in rural poverty move to urban areas to follow the ‘bright lights’ (excitement and hope) that they perceive life in the city has to offer. GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

 Rapidly growing economies due to reliance on the secondary sector (manufacturing) e.g. China. Many cities, such as Shanghai, have grown due to ACs locating factories in EDCs because of cheaper labour and therefore higher profit. Factory work allows migrants from the countryside to earn a higher wage than they would in rural locations.  Greater economic growth of EDC cities causes greater rural-to urban migration. As cities in EDCs grow and expand, this attracts more rural migrants due to the increase in jobs available.

Additional notes on growth of cities to be added here.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

3) Causes and Consequences of Urbanisation

Definitions:

Rural-to-urban-migration: Movement of people from the countryside to the city. This is most common in EDCs.

Internal growth: Growth of a city’s population due to higher birth rates than death rates.

Push factor: These are reasons people want to leave the countryside, and are always negative.

Pull factor: These are reasons people want to move to the city and are always positive.

Push factors include:

 Poverty in the countryside. Many rely on subsistence farming.  In war-torn countries, people move to cities before moving to a safer country.  Damage to the environment and climate change means that subsistence farming is now more difficult.  Houses in the countryside are often of low quality.  Number of people relying on subsistence farming is increasing in low income countries, so finding enough land to grow crops is difficult.

Pull factors:

 Schools in LIDCs are thought to be better in cities than in the countryside.  Standard of living (how comfortably you are able to live) is better in the city. People live a more comfortable life.  Finding a job is easier in the city than in the countryside, where jobs are often seasonal.  Wages in LIDCs tend to be higher in the city than in the countryside.

Figure 3: Positive and negative consequences of urbanisation

Positive consequences (Benefits) Negative consequences (Problems) Jobs in the city often pay more than Vast areas called shanty towns have people earn through farming in the grown up on the edge of cities. There are countryside. This greater income helps to an eye-sore and make the city look run- support families of those working. down. Urbanisation can cause cities to develop Conditions in shanty town are unsanitary. and grow. There are often too few toilets and GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

human waste is found in the streets. People often defecate in the streams where water is extracted for drinking. Low-cost labour brings the price of goods Jobs in the city are not guaranteed and down in the city, meaning city-dwellers workers expect long hours, so migrants can buy more goods for less money. have to work hard to survive.

People moving from rural to urban areas People in shanty towns have little provides a source of cheap labour for electricity and no access to a clean water business within the city. supply. Water often comes from polluted streams or gutters. The poorest people end up living in dirty and unsafe condition in shanty towns. Conditions ate overcrowded and crime can be a big problem.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

4) What is Copenhagen Like?

Location

Copenhagen is the capital city of the country of Denmark. Denmark is a European country and borders the North Sea to the west and the Baltic Sea to the East.

The city of Copenhagen is found in the east of the ‘Capital Region’ state of Denmark and to the east of Denmark’s mainland.

Introduction to Copenhagen

Today, Copenhagen has a population of over 1,280,371 (2016). At only an average of 14m metres above sea level, Copenhagen is a low-lying city at risk of coastal flooding. Much of this area was carved out by glaciers in the last ice age, while hilly areas can be found to the north and west of the city. Many of these peaks reach over 50m in height. Close to the centre of the city are the lakes of Sortedams Sø, Peblinge Sø and Sankt Jørgens Sø, also created during the ice age.

The ‘Lakes’ area of Copenhagen

Figure 4: Development indicators relating to Copenhagen (Right)

History GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

Originally a Viking fishing village, Copenhagen became the capital of Denmark in the 15th century. Following the Plague and raging fires in the 18th century, many parts of Copenhagen were rebuilt. After World War 2, the Finger Plan initiated development along the 5 main railway lines going into the centre of the city.

Climate

Climate in Copenhagen is cool and the region experiences moderate rainfall. July is the hottest month in Copenhagen with an average temperature of 17°C (63°F) and the coldest is January at 0°C (32°F), with the most daily sunshine hours at 8 hours daily in July. In the summer, daylight hours can exceed 17hours, but in winter, this falls to just over 7 hours! The wettest month is June with an average of 60mm of rain.

Attractions

Due to its accessibility from mainland Europe and numerous attractions, much of Copenhagen’s income is based around tourism. According to the national statistics keeper Danmarks Statistik, there were a total of 2.3 million overnight stays during June and July 2015 – an increase of 109,000 more than in 2014. Amongst the attractions are:

a) “The Little Mermaid”.

Unveiled on 23 August 1913, The Little Mermaid was a gift from Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen to the City of Copenhagen.

The sculpture is made of bronze and granite and was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale about a mermaid who gives up everything to be united with a young, handsome prince on land. Every morning and evening she swims to the surface from the bottom of the sea and, perched on her rock in the water, she stares longingly towards the shore hoping to catch a glimpse of her beloved prince.

b) Kronborg Castle

This castle is Denmark’s most famous, known worldwide from Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

Hamlet's spirit is still roaming the hallways of Kronborg, and every summer tourists can experience Hamlet GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

Scenen perform Hamlet on an open air stage in the courtyard.

c) Nyhavn was originally a busy commercial port where ships from all over the world would dock. The area was packed with sailors, ladies of pleasure, pubs and alehouses.

Today the beautiful old houses have been renovated and classy restaurants dominate the old port. Nyhavn is filled with people enjoying the relaxed atmosphere by the canal, jazz music and great food. Why is Copenhagen Important to Denmark?

Tourism is a major contributor to Copenhagen's economy, attracting visitors due to the city's harbour, cultural attractions and award-winning restaurants. Since 2009, Copenhagen has been one of the fastest growing metropolitan destinations in Europe.Hotel capacity in the city is growing significantly. From 2009 to 2013, it experienced a 42% growth in international bed nights (total number of nights spent by tourists), tallying a rise of nearly 70% for Chinese visitors. The total number of bed nights in the Capital Region surpassed 9 million in 2013, while international bed nights reached 5 million. In 2010, it is estimated that city break tourism contributed to DKK 2 billion in turnover. However, 2010 was an exceptional year for city break tourism and turnover increased with 29% in that one year, 680,000 cruise passengers visited the port in 2015.

Why is Copenhagen important for the rest of the World?

Figure 5a: Denmark’s exports as a percentage of their total exports in 2015 GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

13.51% of goods exported from Denmark to other countries were industrial machinery, making up the largest product category. This is closely followed by electrical machinery (9.24%) and pharmaceuticals (5.63%). Demark therefore plays an important role in the production of heavy duty and electrical machinery in the global market.

Figure 5b: Denmark’s imports as a percentage of their total imports in 2015.

12.42% of goods imported to Denmark are industrial machinery, while 9.60% of imports are electrical machinery. Many of the products exported by Denmark are also imported too. More plastics are imported (4.41%) than exported (<3.7%), suggesting that Denmark relies on other countries for the manufacture of plastics.

Politically, Denmark is a democracy and there are two strong political parties within the country. Nine parties are represented in parliament. The four oldest (and in history most influential parties) are the Conservative People's Party, the Social Democrats, Venstre (a conservative-liberal party) and the Danish Social Liberal Party. The current Prime Minister of Denmark is Lars Løkke Rasmussen. He leads a government consisting of Venstre with parliamentary support from the Danish People's Party, Liberal Alliance and the Conservative People's Party.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

5) How has Immigration Changed Copenhagen?

 Most immigrants to Denmark come from non-western countries. For example, in the second quarter of 2016, 320,046 new migrants arrived in Denmark from eastern countries.  The number of immigrants coming to Denmark from non-western countries has increased every quarter of a year. In the third quarter of 2015, 301,594 migrants arrived in Denmark. This has steadily increased by approximately 6,000 people each quarter of a year, reaching 320,046 migrants arriving from non-western countries in the second quarter of 2016.  This trend exists because Denmark is an AC, with a strong economy and a stable political system. People are migrating from LIDCs, where they may be living in poverty, with little chance of employment, or there may be political unrest or even war.  In 2015, most immigrants gaining Danish citizenship were from Asia (2164 people).  In 2015, the group of immigrants originating from Oceania were the group of people who granted the lowest number of Danish citizenship approvals (14 people).  Of the total number of asylum applications held in the first quarter of 2016, 2043 were from Asia, 237 were from Africa and 5 were from Europe.  Danish governments have approved a new law to seize assets from refugees and delay family reunification for three years. This could reduce the number of migrants who chose to move to Denmark in the future because any families who are split up could be prevented from seeing their loved ones for the next 3 years. They are also at risk of losing the little possessions they own. Therefore, if migrants have a choice, they are more likely to move to another European country where this law does not exist. For existing refugees, they may now be tempted to leave Denmark and move to neighbouring countries such as the Netherlands and Germany.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

How has immigration changed the Nørrebro district of Copenhagen? Source Who produced Purpose How is Nørrebro portrayed? Feelings? 5 word summary it? of Nørrebro. A: Cafebabel Local writers To persuade people to Vibrant, exciting and energetic. A Excitement, positivity, Fun, exciting, trendy, website, 2015 visit Nørrebro. To young person’s place (emphasis curiosity. fashionable, unsafe. celebrate multi- on university, bars and culturalism and social restaurants). integration. B: Telegraph Travel Journalists/travel To persuade tourists to A hotspot of activity with lots of Relaxed, intrigue, Historic, trendy, section, 2013 bloggers visit Nørrebro. cafes, restaurants and bars. positivity. quaint, diverse, Contains several historical exciting artefacts. C; Wikitravel Internet users To inform potential Clean, picturesque and cultured. Calm, intrigued, Historic, cultured, website who love to travellers about the Somewhere where people inspired. trendy, clean, travel! Nørrebro area. interested in fine art and history pleasant. would want to visit. D: Backpackers who To give potential Dirty, untidy, scruffy. A place of Negative, Dirty, untidy, scruffy, Worldtravelimages. have visited backpackers a realistic contrasts. disappointment, run-down, neglected. net different impression of uneasy. locations across Nørrebro. the world.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

6) What is life like in Copenhagen?

Ex-Pat’s Guide to Copenhagen Thinking of moving to Copenhagen for a career, study or just for the culture? Here is a short guide to everything you need to know about the city!

Economy Denmark has a modern market economy which invests heavily in high-tech agriculture, pharmaceuticals and renewable energy. The country’s main exports are food products, oil and gas. And imports raw materials for manufacturing.

Development indicator Statistic GNP (PPP) (2015) $258.7 billion (2015 est.) GDP per capita (2015) $45,700 Unemployment rate 4.7% (2015) Population below poverty line 13.4% (2011 estimate) Industrial production growth rate 0.7% (2015)

Housing in Denmark

51% of people in Denmark own their own house and 45% of housing is rented. , but most of these are rented by social housing associations. Due to high inflation rates, it is now difficult to potential buyers to enter the housing market.

A policy for disadvantaged areas of Copenhagen has been made. The objective of this policy is to lift the six disadvantaged areas of Copenhagen into a positive development trend so as to create equal opportunities for all residents no matter where they live. In recent times, many parts of Copenhagen have undergone urban renewal. To encourage increase social wellbeing and economic growth in pockets of the city.

The district of Vesterbro in Copenhagen experienced a substantial urban renewal in the 1990s. It was a project that implying a huge effort in the physical city layout, clearing inner yards and opening up several blocks, but more or less keeping the old structure. Vesterbro district is located very close to the city center, but the housing standard was at a very low level: most of them are lack of central heating, private toilets and bathrooms. Most of the residents in the area disposed of a low income and the unemployment rate was as high as 20%. Amazingly after the renewal project, the decayed Vesterbro begins to attract much more chic restaurants, shops, clubs and customers. The refurbishment turns an area where people were normally not willing to go to become a must-go spot to see the latest trends. Urban renewal is also very meaningful in maintaining a decent living environment and preventing valued residents from moving out.

Social housing refers to rental housing that provided for people on low incomes or with particular needs by government agencies or non-profit organizations. A key function of social housing is to provide accommodation that is affordable to people on low GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures incomes. The highest proportion of social housing is found in suburban areas. In the city of Copenhagen, the housing stock was originally dominated by private rented housing, and social housing only makes up about 20 percent of the housing market at present. The current shortage of social housing in Copenhagen is the long waiting lists. Key workers such as teachers, nurses and firemen have complained that they cannot afford decent housing, and young working adults and household often have difficulty in housing as well.

Reasonably priced, student-friendly apartments are hardly to get hold of, especially for international students. Luckily, Copenhagen has many well-designed dormitories for university students.

Transport

Copenhagen is well-known for its bicycle-friendly policies and culture. Around 90 percent of the population own a bike, and about 38 percent commute daily by bicycle. Unlike in the United States, cars are not as popular, being owned by only about 53 percent of households. By 2008, 246 miles of cycle tracks, lanes, and greenways were existing in the city. In order to encourage more bike transportation, Copenhagen also built the first cycle superhighway network, which connects suburbs to the city center.

Cycle Super Highway comprised of 26 routes will cover 300 km and increase bicycle lanes in Greater Copenhagen by 15 percent. The idea is to eliminate as many stops as possible to encourage more people to commute by bike. The Super Highway development is a collaborative effort between 22 municipalities in the Greater Copenhagen area, and will effectively combine new and old routes increasing connectivity and reducing congestion and pollution.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

7) How is Copenhagen Managing its Congestion problem?

Copenhagen has long has a problem with congestion and conflict between cyclists and other road-users. With the congestion, comes noise pollution and a decrease in air quality.

Strategies to encourage cycling in Copenhagen:

 Pre-greens are stoplights that turn green for cyclists first, then to vehicles 2 to 12 seconds later.  The Green Wave refers to a couple major bike thoroughfares that are specifically designed for cyclists. The first street to adopt this idea, Norrebrogade, has an average speed of 20.3 kilometer per hour.  The Green Wave success has provided 35,000 people with easy commuting during rush hour times and has sparked the development and expansion of two more streets, Osterbrogade, and Amagerbrogade.  Cycle Super Highway, comprised of 26 routes, will cover 300 km and increase bicycle lanes in Greater Copenhagen by 15 percent. The idea is to eliminate as many stops as possible to encourage more people to commute by bike.

Cycling Initiative Information

 41,000 cyclist a day use specialist cycle lanes to cross Cipper’s Bridge – busiest bike street in the world!  Bins angled towards cyclists so they can use them easily as they ride.  Cyclesnake or Cykelslangen Bridge – cost 6 million dollars and links the harbour to the train station.  Green lanes – prioritise the cyclists over the car drivers and signifies to cyclists when traffic lights are green.  Smoother cobble stones installed to allow a comfortable ride.  Inderhavnsbroen. New bridge being built over the harbour which will be used by 11,000 cyclists a day.  3.5 metre wide cycle paths

Success of Initiative:

 Only 12% of Copenhageners drive their cars. (Environmental)  5% increase in bike usage after only 1 year (Environmental/social) GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

 Copenhagen home to busiest cycling street in the world – 41,000 cyclists a day use this route. (Environmental/social)  Cyclesnake cost 6 million dollars but is a popular route connecting harbour and train station (Economic)

How could the initiative be improved?

On one hand the policy is environmentally sustainable because if only 12% of Copenhageners use their car to commute, the CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions will decrease significantly and help to combat global warming.

On the other hand, it could be improved by ensuring the new strategies are economically sustainable. If strategies are too expensive then Copenhagen will not be able to further improve the city for cycling in the future.

8) Rapid Urban Growth in LIDCs

Definitions:

Shanty Towns: Shanty towns or ‘slums’ are areas of temporary housing, often found on the edge of cities. They are a result of rural-to-urban migration and usually found on land which is steep prone to flooding or used for waste disposal.

Where are slums found? GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

The table above shows the 20 largest slums in the world. Slums are a phenomenon associated with LIDCs or EDCs and develop and grow as a result of rural-to-urban migration. Many of the world’s largest slums are found in cities in African countries and other countries such as Brazil, Mexico, India and Peru.

Slum characteristics:

 Houses constructed of recycled and waste materials e.g. corrugated iron/waste plastics/scrap wood  Houses can be as small as 4m2 and have up to as many as 8 people living there.  Open sewerage systems run through the central street and toilets can be shared by up to 1000 people.  Many people in slums do not have permanent jobs, but live day to day and may walk for hours to find a job in the city centre. Many women resort to prostitution to earn money to feed their family.  Some houses may have electricity.  Water pipes can be found in slums, but the water system is easily contaminated due to the lack of sanitation. Residents usually have to pay for clean water and collect it from stand pipes.  Many slums have problems with crime, linked to poverty and low quality of life.

Case Study Example of a top 20 slum – Dharavi, Mumbai, India

Dharavi, Asia’s largest slum, is located in the state of Maharashtra, in the middle of the city of Mumbai. Mumbai is a bustling city, with a large divide between the most wealthy population and the poorest people in the city. GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

More than 1 million people live in Dharavi, which covers just 1 square mile.

Dharavi used to be a fishing village and has grown due to mass rural- to-urban migration from the surrounding countryside. In a city where house rents are among the highest in the world, Dharavi provides a cheap and affordable option to those who move to Mumbai to earn their living.

Rents here can be as low as 185 rupees ($4/£2.20) per month. As Dharavi is located between Mumbai's two main suburban rail lines, most people find it convenient for work.

Although the edge of Dharavi suffers many problems with sanitation, poor-quality housing and disease, there is much to celebrate about this place. Even in the smallest of rooms, there is usually a cooking gas stove and continuous electricity.

Many residents have a small colour television with a cable connection that ensures they can catch up with their favourite soaps. Some of them even have a video player.

Dharavi also has a large number of thriving small-scale industries that produce embroidered garments, export quality leather goods, pottery and plastic.

Most of these products are made in tiny manufacturing units spread across the slum and are sold in domestic as well as international markets.

The annual turnover of business here is estimated to be more than $650m (£350m) a year.The state government has plans to redevelop Dharavi and transform it into a modern township, complete with proper housing and shopping complexes, hospitals and schools. It is estimated that the project will cost $2.1bn (£1.1bn).

Although ’improved housing’ has been provided by the government, it has been criticised by many, as the once large community of Dharavi has now been segregated into individual flats. Many argue that more housing of this design will threaten the thriving sense of community which exists in the slum.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

9) What is Lagos Like?

Location

Lagos is a city in a LIDC and is found on the southern coast of Nigeria, in north-western Africa. The coast boarders the Atlantic Ocean. Nigeria is found within the northern hemisphere in the tropic of Cancer. The country of Nigeria is bordered by four other African countries: Benin to the West, Niger to the North, Chad to the North- East and Cameroon to the East. Lake Chad forms the North-Eastern border between Nigeria and Chad.

Nigeria is a country which is divided into states, much like the USA. Lagos city is found in the state of Lagos. The city’s name means “Lakes” and was named by the first settlers who came from Portugal. Lagos is Nigeria’s largest city and one of the largest in sub-Saharan Africa.

History

Lagos is the largest city and chief port of modern Nigeria. The area that is now Lagos was settled by Yoruba people during the fourteenth century. The founders created a coastal village they called Eko. In the 1760s, Portuguese traders settled there and began using Eko as a port for the slave trade, renaming it Lagos after the coastal city in Southern Portugal that had the greatest trading links with Africa. In 1861, Lagos took step to becoming a British colony.

Under British rule, Lagos never became a fully colonial city (a city which has been taken over by people from another country) as there was never any mass European settlement. Lagos’ cosmopolitan nature was further enhanced by the arrival of thousands of white and black Brazilians in the 1850s. Throughout the 19th century the city was plagued by overcrowding and sanitary problems. GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

In the twentieth century, Lagos became a center for resistance to colonial rule. Revolts against water rates and the taking over of indigenous (local people’s) land in 1908 and 1911 served to unite native Africans. The period between the World Wars saw further organization with the emergence of nationalist groups such as the Nigerian Youth Movement formed in 1933. In 1960, Lagos became the capital of a newly-.

Climate and Landscape

This city has a tropical climate, meaning the long-term weather is warm, wet and mild for most of the year. The summers are much rainier than the winters in Lagos. The average temperature in Lagos is 27.0 °C. The average annual rainfall is 1693 mm.

The city itself sprawls over four main islands: Lagos, Iddo, , and Victoria, which are connected to each other and to the mainland by a system of bridges. All the territory is low-lying, the highest point on being only 22 feet (7 metres) above sea level. Most of the city is generally at sea level.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

Landmarks and Tourist Attractions

Lagos is home to some of Nigeria most iconic landmarks. a) Taiwo Olow’s Monument

The Monument is located in Lagos Island in Broad Street and is thought to have been built by the melting of 1000 pennies. It is said to be the tomb of the late Chief Daniel Conrad Taiwo, a famous political figure in Nigeria. b)

This is the central square in Lagos Island and is used for many public celebrations. The square was named after the first Prime Minister of Nigeria and its grand appearance is due to the building’s statues. c)

The Third Mainland Bridge is the longest bridge in Africa and the longest of three bridges in Lagos, Nigeria. There is the , the , and then the Third Mainland Bridge, connecting Lagos Island to the mainland. d) National Museum

The National Museum stocks the most significant collections of West African antiquities in the world. It is over 50 years old, having been established in 1957, just some years before Nigeria’s independence in 1960. e) Conservation Centre

Managed by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, the Lekki Conservation Centre has a large area of wetlands and wildlife animals like crocodiles, monkeys, exotic birds, and other animals that you can see when you visit early in the morning or late in the evening. There is also a library and a conservation centre.

Cultural Highlights a) The

The Eyo is the masquerade that comes out only in Lagos Island. It is believed to represent the spirits of the ancestors. The Eyo festival may be held in honour of a chief or an elder of a GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures ruling family or an Oba, who had died. It may also be held when a new head of an Iga (palace) or a new Oba is installed. With the advent of westernization and modernization, a governor or a political leader may also request that the festival be organised to add colour to an occasion for a fee. Eyo is usually held on a Saturday.

b) Freedom Park is the remnant of a British Prison located on Broad Street in the heart of Lagos. In order, to preserve this history and cultural heritage, the government upgraded the park. The Park for the past few years has become a one-stop centre to appreciate art, culture and have fun at the same time. It showcases the work of literary giant Prof. Wole Soyinka via the Kongi’s Harvest Art gallery, live music, spoken word, live drama, and hosts events like the Afropolitan vibes and Lagos Black Heritage Festival.

Why is Lagos important to Nigeria?  Lagos’ ports handle four fifths of Nigeria imports.  The ports handle 70% of Nigeria exports.  Lagos is Nigeria’s commercial centre, where most trade happens.

Why is Lagos important to the rest of the World?

 The top exports of Nigeria are petroleum and special use ships.  Its top imports are petroleum, cars, wheat, motorcycles and iron structures.  The top export destinations of Nigeria are: India, Spain, Brazil, the Netherlands and France.  The top import origins are China, the USA, Luxemberg, Belgium and India.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

10) How has immigration changed Lagos? Slum

Makoko is a shanty town which exists in southern Lagos and is officially the world’s largest floating slum. It is home to over 85,000 people. On 16 July 2012, four days after the State Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development issued a 72-hour quit notice to residents, a band of machete-wielding men laid siege to Makoko’s buildings. Five days later, according to the Social and Economic Action Rights Centre (Serac, a legal advocacy group for underprivileged Nigerian communities threatened with forced evictions), the assault escalated: the demolition workers set fire to targeted structures and deployed armed police who allegedly fired gunshots indiscriminately. One resident was killed, shaming the demolition workers into suspending their efforts. By then, 30,000 people had been rendered homeless.

Reasons why people move from rural areas to urban Lagos (rural-to-urban migration): a) Lagos is Nigeria’s most important city and is the economic centre of West Africa b) There are more job opportunities in Lagos in the informal sector c) 85% of households in Lagos have access to a safe water supply d) Commercial activities take pace in some parts of the city 24 hours a day e) Lagos accounts for 60% of economic growth in Nigeria f) Some of the areas of the city are home to extremely luxurious houses g) From 2010 to 2011, youth unemployment in rural areas increased from 48% percent to 60% percent. h) People in the city have money left over after paying for necessary items. This is an average of 99,800N i) It is easy to access to the three main hospitals from within the city.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

Positives and Negatives of Makoko Slum

Positives Negatives Heart of Lagos’ fishing industry is located Sanitation is poor – no proper drainage in Makoko. and sewerage system and no running water. Rubbish thrown into the lagoon. Many people from different countries No jobs available for future generations in forms a multicultural slum – Ghana, Togo, Makoko Cameroon, Benin. There are no ethnic tensions Floating shops on boats where a wide Water pollution carries risk of water-borne variety on goods can be sold e,g, diseases medicines to food. The slum has a school, which was donated 4ft to 6ft makeshift wooden buildings on by NGO money. It also operates as a stilts – at risk of strong tidal currents and Christian Church. sea level rise. Reduced carbon emissions as all travel Slum is next to and made by boat. main business district of – damaging to reputation of Lagos and considered an eyesore Community is organised by 13 highly Conflict and tension exists between local respected chiefs, who resolve community people and Lagos police. 1 man shot over disputes. They also work with NGOs to dispute about evacuation. improve quality of life. Local people are proud of the Local peoples’ tenancy is not secure. Mass neighbourhood. demolition in 2012. Sustainable school built on 200 floating barrels.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

11) What is it like to live in Lagos?

Fact file Name origin: Named after Portuguese word for ‘lagoon’ City function: Political centre, port Area: 999.6 km² Climate: Tropical savannah (Aw), little seasonal variation in temperature, wettest month is June (average 315mm), driest is January (average 13.2mm), hottest month is March (average 28.5 °C), coolest month is August (average 25.0 °C) Population: 21 million Number of airports: 1 Most popular sport: Football

Positives of living in Lagos Negatives of living in Lagos Lively music and bar scene Traffic congestion Slums, such as Makoko Noise and air pollution High crime rate Slums, such as Makoko Overpopulation Infrastructure unable to cope

Why move to Lagos?

Expat Why have you decided to move to Lagos?  Excellent nightlife; lively city which is an exciting place to be  Many cultural highlights, such as the Eyo Festival  Growing economy so lots of jobs available for someone who has qualifications.  Amazing climate – hot all year round!

Pull factors (See above)

Push factors for leaving UK  Jobs are can be difficult to find, even with qualifications.  Climate is cool and wet. Not much sun!

What are you looking forward to about living in Lagos  Experiencing the culture and seeing how much the city is changing. Experiencing the nightlife.

What are you worried about?  High crime rates.  It’s busy and noisy – it might be a bit overwhelming at first!  Lack of good healthcare.

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

Economic migrant moving from rural Nigeria to Lagos Why have you decided to move to Lagos?  Lack of income - surviving on subsistence farming and want a better quality of life and money to make my family comfortable.

Pull factors  Higher chance of getting a better paid job.  Money I can send back to my family.  To gain skills I can use to earn a living.

Push factors for leaving countryside  Poverty  Lack of access to healthcare  Poor quality of life  Subsistence farming can be unreliable - crops can fail leading to malnutrition and famine.

What are you looking forward to about living in Lagos?  Earning money  Knowing my family will be supported  Better environment to live in

What are you worried about?  Not finding a job  High crime rate  Racial tension  Quality of life not improving

GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

12) What problems is Lagos facing?

Fact: Average life expectancy for people living in Lagos state: 70 years. This compares to an average of 53 years (males) and 56 years (females) in the rest of Nigeria.

Problems in Lagos City:

 Traffic congestion  Lack of maintained infrastructure  Poor standards of road safety  Schools overpopulated  Lack of adequate healthcare  High rates of homelessness and unemployment  Housing shortage and growth of slums  Services struggling to cope with levels of immigration

Health and Social Problems in Nigeria 56% of households have access to electricity. This is because many people in the countryside do not have access to electricity. Many people moving to cities such as Lagos live in shanty towns which may not have power.

Wood continues to be the main type of fuel used for cooking. Many people in rural areas are without electricity so have to use the resources around them.

Infant mortality rates are 69 per 1,000 live births each year. This is due to poor access to healthcare and lack of advanced medical facilities. Many people are poor and cannot afford medical care.

36% of births in Nigeria are delivered in a healthcare facility. GCSE Revision Guide People and Society: Urban Futures

Many people in rural areas do not have transportation and cannot afford to pay for medical bills, so will choose to give birth at home with no assistance.

29% of children under 5 are underweight. Many people in rural areas live off subsistence farming, where they grow food for their own survival. If crops fail or there is a bad harvest, food supplies are short.

Only 55% of households have at least one insecticide-treated mosquito net to protect against malaria. Mosquito nets cost money, so many communities have to rely on charity donations.