Abstract
This paper describes how Chaani settlement in Mombasa has developed during this century and how the scale and nature of land ownership has changed over time, influenced by indigenous custom, Muslim law, British colonial practices and, more recently, a low-income housing programme implemented by the government. It then describes a serviced site and upgrading programme that failed to address the needs of the low-income households and ended up primarily benefitting higher-income groups including staff from the government agency that was in charge of the project. Large sums were also spent on trunk infrastructure for water, sewers and electricity but most residents cannot afford the connection charges.