Published on January 15, 2025 by Kenya Online News
Last Updated on 1 year by Kenya Online News
By Kenn Okaka
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has intensified efforts to enhance the face of Nairobi, turning Kenya’s capital into a city of dignity.
The governor’s commitment has started bearing fruits, with the central business district (CBD) undergoing significant transformation through well-coordinated planning to make Nairobi cleaner and more orderly.
One of the key initiatives of the Sakaja administration is the introduction of nighttime cleaning exercises, employing the services of the Green Army to ensure the city remains spotless.
Yesterday, the Nairobi City County government took further steps to enhance the CBD’s appearance by removing low-hanging signage from city buildings. The targeted signs were those that hang above corridors and pavements, while those mounted on walls on the upper levels of buildings were left intact.
This initiative aligns with Governor Sakaja’s election promise to make Nairobi a city of dignity and comes ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), set to take place in February, which is expected to attract an influx of foreign visitors.
The Sakaja administration has prioritized making Nairobi ready to host the high number of visitors anticipated during this period. The ongoing cleanup exercises have already shown results, with the CBD looking cleaner and less congested. Hawkers have been relocated from the main streets to designated backstreet lanes, a move that has reduced garbage heaps and eased congestion.
Additionally, Geoffrey Mosiria, the county’s Chief Officer in charge of the Environment Sector, has issued circulars directing matatus to vacate stages at night during designated cleanup times. Hawkers operating in backstreet lanes have been instructed to conclude their business by 10:00 PM daily, allowing for efficient nighttime cleaning.
Building owners and occupants have also been directed to maintain cleanliness by providing adequate waste receptacles within their premises.
These efforts aim to deliver on Governor Sakaja’s campaign promise of transforming Nairobi into a city of dignity under the #LazimaIWork mantra, which has become the administration’s clarion call.
The county government has designated 29 backstreet lanes for hawkers, ensuring they have a safe space to trade while minimizing congestion on main streets. Traders are also encouraged to dispose of litter in designated bins after closing their businesses.
By relocating hawkers and regulating matatus, the county has successfully reduced noise and environmental pollution in the CBD. Matatus have been directed to avoid unnecessary hooting and loud music, addressing noise pollution concerns.
These combined efforts have transformed Nairobi’s CBD into a clean, organized, and welcoming space where residents and visitors alike can go about their daily activities comfortably.
