Pedestrians in Nairobi’s downtown area are slowly beginning to reap the benefits of the renovations currently taking place along Ronald Ngala, Tom Mboya and parts of Odeo street.
Businesses and the general populace in downtown area of the capital have for the longest time felt that most renovations have targeted the upper side of town often associated with the moneyed bourgeoisie — leaving them down here feeling like orphaned calves.
But now, sections of pavements and sidewalks that were previously riddled with potholes and lose rock boulders are now covered with coloured cabro blocks — and guard posts.
The poor state of the pavements and Non-motorised transport (NMT’s) areas had greatly affected mobility in the capital over the years.
At the moment — sections of the pavements running parallel to Ronald Ngala and Tom Mboya street have been fitted with coloured cabros.
“In the past, walking in Nairobi was never been easy. Pedestrians have had to get used to ‘hopping and skipping’ just to get around the capital – and avoid potholes,” said John Wanjohi, a matatu driver in Nairobi.
“Some people have injured their legs and others hit by vehicles or boda boda because they have to walk on the road. I am happy they are working on these side of town as well” said Wanjohi.
Renovations currently ongoing at the furthest end of Tom Mboya street – up to where it shakes hands with Haile Selassie Avenue Avenue have hit a crescendo.
“It will be less stressful walking on these pavements once the renovations are completed.
“As pedestrians we are happy because it’s becoming a lot easier walking in town, unlike before,” said Ronny Okebe, a resident of Nairobi.
According to Nairobi County Chief Officer, Works, Engineer Geoffrey Tirop, the ongoing facelift and renovation of pavements and NMT works cover Ronald Ngala, Tom Mboya and part of Odeon.
“The Nairobi City County Governments Works department has earmarked Moi avenue, Harambee avenue, Haille Sellassie, Tom Mboya (upper section), Kenyatta Avenue, City Hall Way, Mama Ngina street, Muindi Mbingu, Standard street and Wabera street for renovation works,” he added.
The works done by the Nairobi City County Government (NCCG) is expected to end in mid 2024.
The sidewalks and NMT’S will provide many benefits, including safety, mobility, and a healthier Nairobi community.
“In addition to reducing walking along roadway crashes, the sidewalks will reduce pedestrian crashes while improving and enhancing pedestrian movements in the Central Business district(CBD),” said Engineer Geoffrey.
A number of residents have – however – raised concern with hawkers for turning renovated walkways into their own ‘stalls’. Residents want the renovations extended further downtown.
