President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja have wrapped up a five-day city development tour, launching multiple projects aimed at transforming healthcare, housing, education, and infrastructure. Thousands of Nairobi residents turned up to witness the initiatives, with the leaders embracing Sakaja’s popular ‘Mbwekse’ greeting two fists held together in the air.
Healthcare Expansion
One of the major projects unveiled was the 400-bed Mutuini County Hospital, set for completion in August. The facility is expected to ease congestion at major referral hospitals by providing specialized services, including intensive care (ICU), high-dependency (HDU), and renal care.
“This facility is crucial for the people of Nairobi, and we will ensure it is completed on time,” President Ruto assured, pledging to return in August for the official opening. Sakaja emphasized the hospital’s role in improving healthcare accessibility, stating that his administration is committed to enhancing health infrastructure for Nairobi residents.
Improved Sanitation and Infrastructure
The Umoja Sewerage System was another key project launched during the tour. Part of the broader Nairobi Water and Sewerage Programme, it aims to rehabilitate 260km of sewer lines in Umoja, Kayole, and Donholm.
“This will end the perennial drainage challenges in Nairobi,” Ruto said, while Sakaja vowed to address poor drainage and sanitation, ensuring a cleaner environment for city residents.
Affordable Housing Programme
Sakaja’s urban renewal plan also saw significant progress, with affordable housing projects in Woodley underway and developments in Pangani and Jevanjee ongoing. The Southlands Lang’ata Affordable Housing Project, valued at Sh25 billion, was a major highlight, promising 15,000 new housing units.
“Today, we take a bold step in ensuring Nairobians have access to dignified, affordable housing,” Ruto said. Sakaja echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the initiative is about community-building rather than just constructing homes.
Education and School Feeding
Education received a boost with the expansion of the Dishi Na County school feeding programme, now serving over 316,000 learners across 230 public schools. Additionally, Ruto approved the inclusion of a chapati-making machine in the programme, further enhancing meal variety for school children.
With these projects, Nairobi is poised for significant transformation, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving the lives of city residents.
