An upward-looking photograph captures a densely populated, informal urban settlement in Nairobi, Kenya, under an overcast sky

An upward-looking photograph captures a densely populated, informal urban settlement in Nairobi, Kenya, under an overcast sky. The scene is dominated by multi-story residential buildings overlooking a crowded ground-level area featuring numerous informal market structures. On the left, an eight-story apartment building is visible, characterized by a red-painted upper facade and grey lower levels. Each floor presents multiple small balconies, universally adorned with various items of drying laundry, including clothing and linens. Black water storage tanks are present on the building's roof. To the right, another multi-story structure, appearing to be at least six stories high, displays an upper section of unplastered concrete blocks. Its lower visible floors are painted a vibrant lime green with purple-colored doors and window frames. This building also features numerous balconies, extensively covered with drying laundry. Below these large residential buildings, the ground level is densely packed with single-story and two-story informal structures, primarily topped with corrugated metal roofs. These structures appear to house small businesses and residences. One structure prominently displays an "a_tel money" (Airtel Money) sign. An unpaved street meanders through this ground-level area. Several individuals are present: one person in a dark top and light pants walks towards the right on the street, while other figures are partially visible near makeshift market stalls. These stalls are often shaded by light blue umbrellas and display various goods. The area is heavily crisscrossed by multiple wooden utility poles supporting a dense network of electrical and communication wires. A bicycle is faintly discernible near one of these poles. Piles of refuse and discarded materials are visible on the ground in several locations, particularly along the right side of the image. The immediate foreground shows a partial view of a balcony railing from which a blue towel and other fabrics are drying.