Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has officially launched the construction of 1,900 housing units in Woodley as part of an ambitious Urban Renewal project.
The tenants received allotment letters for their new units, along with a cheque of KSh900,000 each to assist with their relocation and facilitate the start of construction.
Furthermore, the County issued a vacation order to them, in accordance with legal requirements.
The initiative follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at City Hall, where 43 tenants agreed to vacate their homes to pave way for the construction of the modern houses.
The project, titled “300 Woodley Village,” aims to transform the living conditions of Woodley residents by replacing 43 existing units with 1,900 new homes.
This redevelopment not only promises to enhance living standards but also significantly expands housing availability in the city.
Speaking during the signing, Governor Sakaja highlighted the importance of the project, stating, “This is the first time a Government is compensating tenants such an amount to help you relocate as you wait for the project to complete.”
The redevelopment, set to commence on a 10-acre plot within Woodley Estate’s 100-acre land, marks the beginning of a broader initiative to revitalize Nairobi’s aging estates.
Governor Sakaja directed the County Executive Committee (CEC) for Urban and Housing Renewal to prioritize the project’s timely completion, emphasizing its role as a model for future developments in areas such as Bondeni, Lumumba, and Kariobangi.
“I urge my team to give this project the seriousness that it deserves to serve as a model for other areas that we want to develop in Nairobi,” the Governor said.
Patrick Mbogo, CEC for Urban and Housing Renewal, echoed the governor’s commitment, underscoring the county’s dedication to delivering modern, improved housing for Nairobi’s residents.
“We are dedicated to providing better, modern homes for our people,” Mbogo stated.
Lydia Maitha, the Chief Officer for Urban and Housing Renewal, affirmed the importance of the compensation process, noting that vacation notices would be issued shortly.
This step, she explained, is critical to realizing the county’s housing program.
Residents of Woodley Estate, some of whom have lived in the area for decades, expressed their support for the redevelopment.
Beatrice Boit, who has called Woodley home for over 30 years, lauded the MoU for ensuring that long-term residents will receive priority in the new housing allocations.
“After living here for so long, it’s time for modern homes that will enhance and beautify our city,” Boit said.
The project’s developer, Wainana Kenyanjui, assured the county of their commitment to completing the construction swiftly, signaling the start of a new era in Nairobi’s urban renewal and housing development.
With this groundbreaking project, Governor Sakaja’s administration is taking a bold step towards addressing Nairobi’s housing challenges, setting a precedent for future urban renewal efforts across the city.
