Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has assured 43 homeowners of Woodley Estate who vacated their properties to pave the way for a modern housing project that they will have a new home once the housing project is completed.
Speaking after chairing a Cabinet meeting Tuesday at City Hall, Sakaja said the 10-acre section of land, part of a larger 100-acre parcel, will be transformed into a modern residential estate accommodating 1,975 housing units.
“The 43 homeowners were compensated with Sh900,000 each to pay rent elsewhere during the construction. Once the project is complete, they will return to their new homes,” Sakaja stated.
The clarification came even as the demolition began in Woodley for the housing project to take off.
Sakaja
said all affected homeowners were issued with allotment letters guaranteeing
them ownership of units in the upgraded estate.
Construction of the new housing units is expected to begin in the coming months.
“The allotment letters confirm their status as homeowners once the project is complete. From 43 units, we are expanding to 1,975 units, creating room for more tenants in a serene and modern environment,” Sakaja said.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency and humane treatment in redevelopment projects, noting that this is the first time residents have received compensation and formal guarantees before being asked to vacate.
“Imagine a landlord giving you money to pay rent elsewhere, and later inviting you to return to newer, better houses. This is exactly what we are doing,” he said.
Sakaja
also highlighted plans to modernize other estates in Nairobi, such as Bahati
and Kariobangi, while ensuring legal processes are followed.
“We will modernize other areas in Nairobi as well. Residents will be compensated, given allotment letters, and adequate notice to vacate. We are committed to fair and humane redevelopment,” he reiterated.
The proposed 300 Woodley Village Estate will include a swimming pool, playground, and a shopping centre, setting a new standard for urban living in Nairobi.
