Nairobi's Jogoo, Kipande roads among those closed temporarily to fix drainage, potholes
Nairobi has been grappling with deteriorating road conditions characterised by potholes and inadequate drainage systems.
Several roads in Nairobi, including Jogoo Road and Kipande Road, have been temporarily closed to facilitate repairs and upgrades aimed at addressing drainage issues and the many potholes on them.
The Nairobi City County government, led by Governor Johnson Sakaja, announced the closures as part of a broader effort to improve the city’s road infrastructure.
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“Kipande Road has been temporarily closed to facilitate a drainage upgrade aimed at addressing the persistent flooding at the Ojijo Road roundabout. The current drainage system, which consists of a 1,200mm pipe connecting to a 600mm pipe at Ojijo, has caused backflow and significant flooding. As agreed with the national government, we have intensified roadworks. Several other roads within estates are also undergoing repairs,” Sakaja said.
The county has also completed upgrades on several roads, including Kisauni Road in Nairobi West Ward, Kawangware Market Road, Pam-Baraka Road Mung’etho in Mowlem Ward, and Nyayo Highrise Roads.
Other rehabilitated roads include the access road to Ruthimitu Girls High School in Uthiru/Ruthimitu Ward, as well as roads in Ziwa and Kahawa Wards.
On 2nd Parklands Avenue, Sakaja said a new stormwater drain is under construction near the Red Ginger area to address waterlogging. The development is expected to significantly mitigate the effects of heavy rains and prevent flooding in the surrounding areas.
Collaboration with national government
Sakaja also highlighted the collaboration between the county and national governments in addressing the city’s road challenges.
“Nairobians don’t care whether a road falls under the county or national government, they just want it fixed. That is exactly what we are doing. I appreciate the input of the national government and our county roads department in ensuring progress. We are committed to ensuring Nairobians have better roads. Give us some time, and more areas will be addressed,” he said.
Nairobi has been grappling with deteriorating road conditions characterised by potholes and inadequate drainage systems. In November, President William Ruto visited Soweto, where residents raised concerns over poor road conditions.
This led to a meeting between Sakaja, Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, Roads Principal Secretary Joseph Mbugua, and Kenya Highways Authority Director-General Kung’u Ndungu, resulting in a plan to improve roads across the city.
The ongoing repair works include roads under both national and county jurisdictions, with all relevant agencies actively participating in the rehabilitation efforts.
