[2] After riots in 1966 a checkpoint was erected in front of the capital of the former French colony to discourage "subversive elements" at the entrance to the city.

Upstream of this checkpoint developed a settlement of migrants from other parts of the country, an informal cattle market and a caravan station.

Police raids in the city and the subsequent deportation of unwanted newcomers further contributed to the growth of Balbala, which became a large shanty town.

Building rights were gradually transferred to the occupants, and the area acquired urban characteristics, with solid construction and schools and other services.

[3] Despite this, much of Balbala remains an area of extreme poverty, with over 80% of the housing composed of corrugated sheeting, planks and metal panels.