Nairobi developers celebrate court win, push for better water and power in Eastleigh
Some developers raised concerns about police harassment, saying officers from outside Eastleigh sometimes arrest residents or interfere with their work, which they described as improper.
Members of the Property Developers Welfare Society of Nairobi convened on Sunday to review the group’s achievements over the past year and discuss ongoing challenges affecting their work.
The meeting was chaired by Abdirahman Shibli, who highlighted the society’s progress in building stronger relationships with government institutions and protecting members’ interests across the city.
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“One of the key achievements of the past year has been our ability to engage directly with several government agencies involved in construction and revenue matters,” he said.
He noted that the society has held discussions with senior officials at the Kenya Revenue Authority, including its chairman, Ndiritu Muriithi, to help developers reach a shared understanding on tax obligations and payment procedures.
“These engagements are meant to ensure that developers meet their obligations while avoiding situations that can lead to conflict or disrupt their work,” he added.
The society has also met with other agencies affecting the construction sector, including the National Construction Authority, the Civil Aviation Authority, and the National Environment Management Authority. According to Shibli, these efforts aim to create a working environment where members are not subjected to unnecessary harassment or project delays.
Court victory
Another significant achievement highlighted was a court victory in a long-standing dispute with the Parklands Residents Association. The association had repeatedly sought to stop construction in parts of Parklands and Westlands, affecting many members and halting several projects.
“Over 82 projects were stopped in Parklands, and all were owned by us. On the 16th of October, the court approved and gave us the go-ahead,” Shibli said.
Despite these gains, the society acknowledged ongoing challenges.
Water shortages in Eastleigh were a major concern, with some developers reporting significant expenses in purchasing water for their buildings.
Members also accused Kenya Power of corruption, claiming that electricity is sometimes cut off and only restored after payments are made.
Construction approvals
Delays in construction approvals by Nairobi City County were also cited as a hindrance, increasing project timelines and costs.
Some developers raised concerns about police harassment, saying officers from outside Eastleigh sometimes arrest residents or interfere with their work, which they described as improper.
Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan attended the meeting and addressed some of these concerns. He urged members to remain united, saying that a strong and organised group can find solutions to many challenges.
Regarding water, the MP said improvements may be imminent due to new pipelines linked to the affordable housing project in Shauri Moyo that will pass through Eastleigh.
“There are new pipes being constructed. They are meant for Shauri Moyo houses and will pass through Eastleigh, and you will get water from it,” he said.
On electricity, Yusuf encouraged developers to consider renewable energy solutions, especially in new constructions, to reduce reliance on Kenya Power.
He also noted that parliament is debating a bill that would allow more companies to sell power to Kenyans, which could help address some of the concerns raised.
The meeting was also attended by Eastleigh North MCA Ahmedkadar Dabar and Mandera County Deputy Governor Ali Maalim.
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