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Plans to establish nightclubs at Uhuru Park spark outrage

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja during a meeting with the National Government Nairobi Security team on March 7, 2024. (Photo: Nairobi County)

By Hanifa Adan | 18 Apr 2024

Kenyans expressed their dissatisfaction with the decision, with some saying they should instead build libraries at the park.

Governor Johnson Sakaja's proposal to establish nightclubs in Uhuru Park sparked widespread anger among Kenyans on Thursday.

The announcement has ignited a wave of discontent, with many expressing concerns over the potential commercialisation and degradation of the cherished public space.

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He made the announcement during the official handover ceremony of the park to the county.

"There will be a club here. As we said, we removed the bars and clubs from the estates. If people want to make noise, let them come here," Sakaja said.

Kenyans expressed their dissatisfaction with the decision, with some saying they should build libraries instead.

"Build libraries, please. Why do we need a club in a recreational park that families go to?" Said user Queen Gathoni.

"Wangari Mathai fought for this park and won. We must not let her down as Kenyans," said Alice Nene on X.

Others urged the governor to preserve the recreational space that is frequented by families.

"Why not preserve this as a green, tranquil, recreational space for all ages to enjoy? Does Nairobi need another nightclub? And if so, must it be here?" posed Tom Mboya.

Another user told the governor to build a museum depicting the history of Uhuru Park.

Some people even claimed that opening nightclubs at the park was a form of gentrification.

"Why can't you let people enjoy parks? Now there are gates, restaurants even a club. This is just to make it inaccessible. Why can't the political class let the masses enjoy their stuff?"

The governor also appeared to disagree with Defense CS Aden Duale's statement of keeping Uhuru Park a no-go zone for political activities.

Duale had earlier told the Senate that there were concerns over potential damages from large gatherings and declared that Uhuru Park would no longer serve as a venue for political rallies once it reopened.

However, Sakaja said it was up to the county to decide what the park will be used for.

"I agree, there are certain things we cannot allow. Now the park will be under us and it will be up to us to decide," he said.

In the late 1980s, Maathai courageously defended the park against the threat of destruction. Many attribute the park's existence to her. Her funeral was also held at the park and attended by thousands of mourners.