Nairobi’s Urban Renewal Project is set for parliamentary review as senators in the Senate Committee on Roads have agreed to dedicate three days in April to assess its progress across more than 10 estates in the city.
The initiative, spearheaded by Governor Johnson Sakaja, focuses on redeveloping county-owned land through joint ventures with private investors distinct from the national government’s Affordable Housing Program, which is funded through the housing levy.
Chairperson of the committee, Senator Eddy Oketch, emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of the project to ensure transparency and stakeholder engagement.
“We shall hold a three-day retreat, bringing together all stakeholders, including the governor, to fully understand the urban renewal project,” Oketch stated.
Senator Kajwang’ echoed the sentiment, stressing the importance of reviewing key documents such as minutes of public participation meetings and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
“This is a unique housing project aimed at modernizing estates in Nairobi. We need to scrutinize all documents to compile a conclusive report,” he said.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna underscored the necessity of time management in the review process, urging all parties to be fully involved.
“As we take time off for this, we must ensure the participation of the Governor, stakeholders, and residents so we can compile a clear and comprehensive report,” Sifuna noted.
Appearing before the committee, Governor Sakaja highlighted the difference between the Affordable Housing Program and the Urban Renewal Project.
“While affordable housing is funded through the housing levy, the urban renewal program involves county-owned land, where private investors are invited to build through joint ventures,” he explained.
Sakaja reaffirmed that the project is aimed at modernizing housing and addressing Nairobi’s rapid population growth.
“In all areas, we conducted public participation and explained the need for housing expansion. In Woodley, for example, we compensated residents with Ksh 900,000 each to relocate temporarily before they return to new homes,” he stated.
The Governor further revealed that 43 housing units in Woodley Estate had already been demolished to pave the way for redevelopment. Once complete, the 10-acre site will accommodate 1,975 modern units—significantly increasing housing capacity.
Providing an update on the status of the urban renewal initiative, Governor Sakaja outlined ongoing projects across several estates.
“Pangani Estate (5.1 acres): 5,062 housing units under development. Jeevanjee Estate, Starehe (8.8 acres): Over 1,800 units planned. Bahati Estate, Makadara: Joint venture agreement in effect.”he explained
Other areas include Maringo Estate: Three development lots, one already awarded. Jericho Estate: Two awarded lots, each expected to deliver over 3,000 units. Lumumba Estate (9.4 acres): Set for redevelopment. Bondeni Estate (2.7 acres): Renewal plans underway. Ziwani Estate: Over 5,000 new units planned. Kariobangi North Estate (4.7 hectares): Over 3,000 units under construction. Embakasi Estate (23 acres): Potential collaboration with the national government. Woodley Estate: 1,975 units under development.
The Senate Committee’s review is expected to provide further clarity on the project’s implementation, ensuring transparency and accountability in Nairobi’s housing transformation.
