Eastleigh boda boda riders, hawkers and food vendors plead for shelter amidst ongoing rains

The relentless and torrential rains in Eastleigh, Nairobi have brought about a myriad of challenges for the local boda boda riders, significantly disrupting their operations and pushing them out of their usual stages, notably along General Waruinge Street. The adverse weather conditions have prompted these riders to call on the Nairobi County Government for urgent intervention, requesting the construction of shelters on their designated stages to shield them from weather elements.

Robert Mwangi, a boda boda operator affected by the ongoing rains, expressed the struggles they face: "We used to operate comfortably from our usual stages, but now, with the heavy rains, it's almost impossible. We need shelters to protect ourselves and our bikes as we wait for clients."

Another boda boda rider, Ian Wafula, echoed similar sentiments: "Our work has become very challenging. We are exposed to the rain, and our clients also face the inconvenience. It would make a huge difference if we had shelters on our stages."

The plea for shelters extends beyond the boda boda community to include hawkers and food vendors whose makeshift structures provide minimal protection From Rain. The need for better facilities has become apparent, and they join the call for the Nairobi County Government to address this pressing issue.

Hawker Peter Njenga emphasised the struggle: "Our makeshift structures are barely enough to shield us from the rain. We need better shelters to continue our businesses effectively."

In addition to the challenges faced by the local businesses, residents have raised concerns about persistent water shortages in Eastleigh, even with the ongoing rains. They are calling on Governor Sakaja and the area MCA to take swift action to address this issue.

Resident Hoddan Barre expressed her frustration: "It's disheartening that despite the heavy rains, we still experience water shortages. We need our leaders to look into this matter urgently."

Another resident, Abdullahi Bilan, added, "Access to clean water is a basic necessity. We urge Governor Sakaja and our MCA to prioritise solving this problem. It's affecting our daily lives."

The combination of disrupted boda boda operations, the need for improved facilities for vendors, and the ongoing water shortages highlight the multifaceted challenges facing Eastleigh and the larger Kamukunji Constituency residents during the current rainy season.