The Nairobi City County Government has introduced new measures aimed at improving the city’s cleanliness and order. In a notice dated January 13, Geoffrey Mosiria, the county’s Chief Officer for Environment, announced a ban on parking at matatu stages during the night. The directive seeks to allow environment staff to conduct thorough cleaning of the stages without hindrances from parked vehicles.
The notice comes after concerns were raised over abandoned and poorly maintained vehicles occupying the stages, which not only impede cleaning activities but also contribute to environmental degradation. Mosiria noted that some matatus were not properly managed and left in open spaces without waste disposal measures. The directive mandates that all vehicles vacate the stages during designated cleaning hours to ensure the cleanliness and sustainability of the urban environment.
Additionally, the Nairobi County Government has emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness at all times. Matatu owners are required to subscribe to licensed waste service providers to manage waste generated by their operations. This move aims to address the waste management challenges often associated with the public transport sector.
In another bid to improve the quality of life in the city, the county government has ordered an end to unnecessary hooting and loud music by matatus, which have long been a source of noise pollution in the urban center. The Nairobi County Government has made it clear that compliance with these new directives is mandatory and that failure to adhere will attract enforcement actions under the law.
This move follows a similar directive on January 6, where the county government ordered hawkers to relocate to designated backstreets after 4 p.m., prohibiting them from operating on major roads such as Moi Avenue, Haile Selassie Avenue, and River Road.
Governor Johnson Sakaja’s administration continues to push for a cleaner, more orderly Nairobi. The latest measures reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing the city’s image, promoting sustainable urban living, and ensuring a more pleasant environment for all residents.
