The 10 Worst Slums in the World

From inadequate housing and limited healthcare to lack of clean water, the world’s worst slums are facing a lot of challenges. 

As per the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT), a slum household is defined by its lack of access to improved water and sanitation facilities, insecure land tenure, substandard housing durability, or insufficient living space.

Governments globally continue to wrestle with the persistent issues of poverty, disease, and crime in these slum regions. Despite numerous efforts to uplift living standards in these settlements, slums persist as a stark reality in many parts of the world. Here’s a glimpse into some of the world’s worst slums.

1. Rocinha Favela, Brazil

Rocinha, one of South America’s biggest and most famous slums, epitomizes Rio de Janeiro’s urban complexity and inequality. Perched on a steep hillside near the city’s renowned beaches, it struggles with overcrowding, poor infrastructure, and ongoing socio-economic issues. Despite past successes in securing basic services, persistent challenges like water shortages and landslides highlight its status as the world’s worst slum.

2. Neza-Chalco-Itza, Mexico

In the northern outskirts of Mexico City’s Federal District lies this settlement named after the ancient Aztec ruler Nezahualcóyotl. Until the early 20th century, the area was part of Lake Texcoco. Government intervention drained the lake, and the land was sold to private individuals. Only in the 1960s did infrastructure efforts begin, bringing sewage, drinking water, and electricity to the settlement. Despite recent federal government efforts to improve services, the situation remains critical.

3. City of the Dead, Egypt

In Egypt’s City of the Dead, half a million people live among ancient tombs, making it one of the world’s toughest slums. Stemming from a housing crisis, residents face death daily, especially children. Outsiders encounter hostility, particularly if they take photos. Yet, the Friday Market reveals community resilience as locals buy and sell goods amidst adversity.

4. Dharavi, India

The slum is located on the outskirts of Mumbai, India’s bustling financial capital and most populous city, covering an area of about 1.7 square kilometers. Originally a fishing village, the government aims to upgrade it into a modern satellite city with essential services. However, the proposed investment of over $2 billion is currently just an idea, awaiting realization.

5. Kibera, Kenya

The slum, home to 2.5 million people, accommodates around 60% of the Kenyan capital’s population. Just 20% of the dwellings have electricity, and access to clean water is scarce. Hospitals and public clinics are non-existent, with basic medical services provided solely by international NGOs like Amref and MSF or religious groups, primarily Catholic and Protestant associations.

6. Khayelitsha, South Africa

Khayelitsha, among Cape Town’s poorest African suburbs, hosts one of the world’s largest slums, accommodating over one million residents. Post-Apartheid economic disparities persist, leading to poverty and crime. Police escorts are necessary for safety due to high crime rates. Moreover, HIV/AIDS prevalence and widespread poverty are significant concerns.

7. Cité Soleil, Haiti  

Located on the outskirts of the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince, is one of the country’s poorest and most densely populated areas. Within the slum, there are only two schools and a handful of medical clinics. Commercial activities are scarce. After the 2010 earthquake, it took approximately two weeks to deliver humanitarian aid to families in this area.

8. Makoko, Nigeria

Also known as “Black Venice” or “Venice of Africa,” Makoko is a slum situated on the outskirts of Lagos. Founded in the 18th century as a fishing village, Makoko comprises structures built on stilts interconnected by canals navigated by residents in wooden canoes. Each house typically houses around eight people, mainly from Togo and Benin. 

9. Tondo, Philippines

Located in Manila, Tondo ranks among the world’s worst slums. Initially planned as an industrial port, it transformed into a sprawling squatter settlement post-World War II. Presently, with approximately 70,000 people per square kilometer, it stands as one of the most densely populated areas worldwide. Despite the polluted river posing health risks, it serves as a playground for children. 

10. Petare, Venezuela

Petare is the biggest slum in South America. The settlement sits almost a thousand meters above sea level, east of the capital, Caracas. Recognized as one of Latin America’s most violent neighborhoods, the government has launched an impressive program to combat crime, led by the police and the military.