By Peter Halima
Nairobi, Kenya – President William Ruto has reaffirmed his government’s dedication to transforming Nairobi into a modern and accessible city with thriving, livable neighborhoods. The President made the commitment during a briefing on the Nairobi County Urban Renewal and Regeneration Programme, highlighting its importance beyond just infrastructure development.
“We are committed to transforming Nairobi into a more livable, accessible, and modern city,” Ruto stated. “Through the Nairobi County Urban Renewal and Regeneration Programme, we have embarked on a collaborative effort with the county government to revitalize the city.”
The initiative, according to the President, is about “restoring dignity, improving mobility, and shaping the shared future” of the capital. A key component of the program is the rehabilitation of 161 kilometers of roads and walkways across Nairobi, aimed at improving accessibility and overall urban experience.
The Nairobi Regeneration and Urban Renewal Programme also aims to address the ever-increasing demand for affordable housing by constructing modern apartments on the sites of dilapidated older estates. This addresses a crucial need for decent housing and aims to improve the quality of life for city residents. The targeted areas currently suffer from deteriorated buildings, inadequate streets and utilities, and in some cases, a complete lack of essential infrastructure.
The President also highlighted the Affordable Housing Programme and the Nairobi River Regeneration Programme as crucial initiatives contributing to the modernization of the capital city.
Speaking earlier this week during a working tour of Nairobi County, Ruto emphasized the importance of bold and well-implemented policies in driving positive change. He specifically addressed the residents of Mathare, assuring them that the area’s slums would be transformed into decent housing. “I want to assure the residents of Mathare that slums will be a thing of the past. Our people here will soon own and live in decent homes,” he declared.
City Hall has also been actively involved in modernizing Nairobi, with initiatives such as paving pedestrian sidewalks to enhance the city’s aesthetics. However, ongoing challenges remain, including poor waste management and the persistent presence of hawkers in the Central Business District. While significant strides are being made, addressing these issues will be crucial to achieving the President’s vision of a truly modern and livable Nairobi.
