Which of the following best explains the rapid urban population growth in developing countries in Africa?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the best explanation for rapid urban population growth in African developing countries. Urban growth comes from two sources: natural increase (births minus deaths) and rural-urban migration. In most developing countries, migration is the biggest driver of rapid growth.

Step 2: Explain the concept Rural-urban migration is driven by push factors (in rural areas) and pull factors (in towns and cities):

• Push factors: poor farm incomes, lack of employment, poor infrastructure, land shortage, and the lack of social amenities.
• Pull factors: job opportunities in industries, commerce and services, better pay, and better amenities such as schools, hospitals, electricity and water.

Of all these, the search for employment and better income is the most important. Lagos, Accra, Nairobi and Kano all grew rapidly largely because people moved there for work.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. More medical facilities: This is a pull factor, but a secondary one. People rarely migrate mainly for hospitals.
• B. Migration in search of jobs: This is the main driver, and it is the best answer.
• C. More living spaces: This is wrong. Urban areas are usually overcrowded, with housing shortages and slums.
• D. Greater security: This is not generally true, and it is not the main reason for migration. Only in conflict situations do people move to cities for safety.

Step 4: Answer

Exam tip: For "rapid urban growth" questions, think rural-urban migration for jobs. Whenever you see options about "more space" in towns, be suspicious, because cities are typically crowded. Remember the phrase: "Push from the village, pull to the city, and jobs are the biggest pull."