Runda residents stage protest over controversial luxury housing project
The eight-acre site, originally set aside for educational and community use, is now at risk of being converted into high-end residences.
Residents of Runda staged a peaceful demonstration to oppose the proposed luxury housing project on Land Reference No. 7785/1303 along Andrew Zagoritis Road.
The eight-acre site, originally set aside for educational and community use, is now at risk of being converted into high-end residences.
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Chris Getonga, the Chairman of the Runda Residents Association, explained that the land was handed over to the government in 1977 by Mae Properties Ltd, the original developer of Runda Estate.
“Today, private developers are attempting to convert this public land into a $48 million (Sh6.2 billion) luxury housing scheme with 16 units, each priced between $2 million (Sh258 million) and $3.6 million (Sh465 million),” said Getonga.
“This project undermines public interest, threatens the environment, and is rooted in historical irregularities,” he added.
The disputed land forms part of the Runda Basin, an important area for stormwater retention. Residents say it has been illegally backfilled, a move that could worsen flooding and environmental degradation.
They note that soil dumping in 2024 disrupted natural drainage systems, causing floods, soil erosion, and property damage along Benin Drive and Eliud Mathu Road.
Houses marooned by flood waters in Runda following heavy rains in 2024. (Photo: Handout)
“This development is not only illegal but dangerous. The Runda Basin acts as our natural water retention area; destroying it threatens the entire neighbourhood,” said Judy Kerubo, one of the demonstrators.
Organised under the banner #SaveRundaBasin, the protest drew members of the Runda Residents Association and the Karura Ward community, who accused the developer of environmental destruction, unlawful change of land use, and encroachment on public property.
Residents are demanding that the Nairobi City County Government, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and the Water Resources Authority (WRA) immediately halt all construction works, investigate the land’s ownership and environmental compliance, and revoke any irregular approvals issued to the developer.
Karura MCA Fiu Nifiu urged authorities to act promptly, emphasising: “Restoring this land to its original public use for education and community purposes will set a landmark precedent in defending public interest and ending the cycle of land grabbing in Nairobi.”
Demonstrators pledged to continue their peaceful advocacy until public land is protected and environmental justice is ensured.
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