Eastleigh leaders unite to resolve business hub's key challenges

Eastleigh's business people and leaders convened a crucial meeting on Saturday to discuss pressing issues including lack of water, the garbage menace, continued harassment by security officers, and security.

The bustling commercial hub in the city is also grappling with poor roads that flood during heavy rains, and waste disposal problems.

These are among the challenges that motivated the Eastleigh Business District Association (EBDA) to convene the crucial meeting to discuss solutions.

Ahmed Abdullahi, chairman of the Eastleigh Business District Association (EBDA), addresses a business community meeting in Eastleigh, Nairobi, on February 24, 2024. (Photo: Amin Abdullahi)

EBDA Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Adan Osman highlighted the significance of the gathering, noting the presence of traditional elders, business leaders, and Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan.

In the last few weeks, traders in the important business hub in Nairobi have faced raids by multi-agency teams that have accused them of trading in counterfeit milk and milk products.

Yusuf presented the issue at Parliament, raising concerns about the conduct of the police officers, which he noted contradicted the rules of the National Police Service (NPS).

In his address, Adan affirmed the EBDA's commitment to collaboration with the Kamukunji legislator's office in addressing their problems.

"In partnership with the MP's office and relevant government authorities, we are determined to tackle these challenges head-on," he said.

Omar Hussein, secretary-general of the Eastleigh Business District Association (EBDA) during a business community meeting in Eastleigh, Nairobi, on February 24, 2024. (Photo: Amin Abdullahi)

EBDA Secretary-General Omar Hussein noted the resurgence of the Super Power gang, which has caused fear among residents, and criticised the police raids, saying local leaders intend to take up the matter with Mohamed Amin, director of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

"The time has come for Eastleigh to utilise the appropriate channels to resolve these challenges, including direct dialogue with the DCI," he said.

Members of the Eastleigh business community during a meeting on February 24, 2024, convened by the Eastleigh Business District Association (EBDA). (Photo: Amin Abdullahi)

Association chair Ahmed Abdullahi underscored the importance of collective advocacy and the need for every business in Eastleigh to promptly register with the EBDA so they can collectively amplify their concerns.

He regretted a low compliance rate among mall owners, saying only 11 out of 80 had fulfilled registration requirements.

"We must have a unified voice to ensure our grievances are heard and addressed. The EBDA serves as our collective voice, recognised by all stakeholders, including the government," he noted.

Ahmed further noted the need to combat a gang he did not name but which he said has been collecting money from hawkers and facilitating their business activities along major roads in the neighbourhood.

He reported assurances from the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company (NCWSC) regarding increased water supply to Eastleigh during Ramadhan.

Members of the Eastleigh business community during a meeting on February 24, 2024, convened by the Eastleigh Business District Association (EBDA). (Photo: Amin Abdullahi)

The Kamukunji MP noted that water scarcity is a city-wide issue affecting millions of residents.

"The water problem is not just in Eastleigh. It's all over Nairobi. The 525,000 cubic meters Nairobi receives are not enough" he said.

Yusuf also urged comprehensive solutions to the waste management problem, calling for the establishment of locally-owned waste collection companies.

On the security front, the MP stressed the need for community cooperation in identifying and apprehending troublemakers.

Emphasising the timeliness of concerted action in addressing Eastleigh's challenges, he further urged residents to support the EBDA's initiatives by becoming registered members.