Different kind of Flora has been planted on this section of General Wariungi Street running from Pumwani roundabout to Shell petrol station. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)
A section of General Wariungi Street in Eastleigh, Nairobi, has undergone a transformation after a beautification initiative led by Business Bay Square Mall (BBS Mall)
The project has seen the area between Pumwani roundabout and the Shell petrol station enhanced with the planting of various types of flora, including roll palm, golden palm, herbarium, and Aloe Vera.
BBS Mall's head of marketing and communication Dalmar Abdi, said the motivation behind the project is aimed at improving the aesthetics of the street, as it serves as a primary entrance point for many visitors to Eastleigh.
"We want this area to be beautiful since it is where most visitors access the mall from other areas," Dalmar said.
"It was clean, and now with these flowers, it's even more picturesque."
Different kind of Flora has been planted on this section of General Wariungi Street running from Pumwani roundabout to Shell petrol station.(Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)
General Wariungi Street is one of the main arteries connecting Eastleigh to Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD). It plays a crucial role in the daily commute of residents and visitors alike.
In addition to General Wariungi Street, Yusuf Haji Road is another key route that links Eastleigh to surrounding areas, including Jogoo Road and Juja Road.
John Mark, the contractor overseeing the beautification process, revealed that the work has been ongoing for two weeks and is expected to be completed by next week.
"By Tuesday, it will be done," Mark confirmed.
He highlighted the selection of low-maintenance plants that require minimal watering and noted the positive impact the greenery is expected to have on the area.
Mark expressed hope that other parts of Eastleigh would adopt similar beautification efforts, as he believes such initiatives could help address the issue of garbage disposal in the area.
"I believe when this kind of flowers are planted on the road reserves, nobody will dump garbage there; it is the way to go," he said.
The planting of flowers has been well received by local residents and road users. Many believe it has improved the overall appearance of the area.
Noah Mwirigi, a matatu driver, observed that the street's transformation has added to the appeal of the neighbourhood, which already boasts tall modern buildings and the prominent Business Bay Square Mall.
"Some time back, when I came to this side of Eastleigh, all I saw was a littered street with scattered garbage, but you can see that is no more. Look at this area now, very beautiful," Noah said.
Ikran Hussein, a visitor to the mall, also praised the initiative, noting that it has not only enhanced the shopping experience but also contributed to the beautification of Eastleigh.
"I think this is the only area where cleanliness is a top priority. It is swept every morning, and now with these flowers, it looks much better than any other area of Eastleigh," Ikran said.
Recently, the area has become a popular spot for young people in the evenings. Many are drawn to the picturesque surroundings, often taking photos of themselves and the transformed street.
