Sakaja compensates residents as Woodley Urban project takes-off

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has launched the construction of 1,900 housing units in Woodley, Nairobi.

The development follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at City Hall, where 43 tenants agreed to vacate their homes to pave the way for the construction of modern houses.

Speaking during the signing of the MoU on Monday, Governor Sakaja said the project is key in his urbanisation programme.

"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," Sakaja remarked

The redevelopment is set to commence on a 10-acre plot within Woodley Estate's 100-acre land.

The initiative seeks to revitalize Nairobi's ageing estates.

The housing units are part of an ambitious Urban Renewal project being carried out by the Nairobi County government.

During the signing of the MoU, the tenants received allotment letters for their new units that will see them become first home owners once the project is completed.

They also received a cheque of Sh900,000 to facilitate their relocation.

The County at the same time issued a vacation order to them, in accordance with the legal requirements.

The project, titled '300 Woodley Estate' aims to transform the living conditions of Woodley residents by replacing 43 existing units with 1,900 new homes.

This redevelopment seeks to enhance living standards but also significantly expands housing availability in the city.

Governor Sakaja has directed the County Executive Committee (CEC) for Urban and Housing Renewal to prioritize the project and ensure it is completed in time.

He emphasized that the Wodley project will be 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.

CEC for Urban and Housing Renewal Patrick Mbogo underscored 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.

Chief Officer for Urban and Housing Renewal Lydia Maitha, 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, signalling the start of a new era in Nairobi's urban renewal and housing development.