The state of Nairobi’s roads has become a growing concern, with residents experiencing daily frustrations due to the poor conditions. In response to the worsening situation, the Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ), commonly known as the Ombudsman, has raised a red flag over the deteriorating infrastructure. The commission’s CEO, Mercy Wambua, has called for urgent answers from the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) regarding the state of roads in the capital city.
The Ombudsman’s intervention comes as various videos and social media posts highlight the severe potholes and damaged roads across the city. Key areas, such as Jogoo Road to Landhies Road near Muthurwa Market, Soweto Masimba Road, Kilimani, and Upper Hill, have seen significant deterioration in recent months. The videos circulating online paint a grim picture of roads that are not only dangerous but also contributing to the daily struggles faced by Nairobians.
In a statement, Mercy Wambua expressed concern over the alarming rise in road accidents attributed to the poor road conditions. The Ombudsman emphasized that these issues are causing fatalities, injuries, and property damage, exacerbating traffic congestion in the city. Beyond the immediate impact on residents, the state of Nairobi’s roads has broader implications for the nation’s economy. The traffic jams, delays, and accidents are seen as significant contributors to the inefficiencies that affect productivity and the overall welfare of the Kenyan public.
The commission’s call to action has placed pressure on KURA to respond swiftly. Wambua has given KURA’s Director General a seven-day deadline to address the public’s concerns and provide a detailed report on the current state of roads in Nairobi. This report must include an assessment of potholes, surface damage, drainage systems, and road markings, as well as a comprehensive timeline for the maintenance and repair of affected roads. The Ombudsman is also pushing for immediate measures to mitigate the risks posed by the current road conditions, such as temporary repairs and effective traffic management strategies. The long-term solution, however, is focused on improving road safety and ensuring the durability of infrastructure for years to come.
The situation has raised questions about the management of Nairobi’s roads and the roles of KURA and the Nairobi County Government in maintaining the city’s infrastructure. According to the Kenya Roads Act, KURA is responsible for the construction, upgrade, rehabilitation, and maintenance of all public roads in cities and municipalities, excluding national roads. However, Section 16 of the Nairobi City County Transport Act No. 3 of 2020 also assigns the responsibility for maintaining county roads to the Nairobi County Government. This dual responsibility has led to confusion and delays in addressing the deteriorating roads, with both entities often pointing fingers at each other.
The Ombudsman’s involvement in this matter underscores the urgency of resolving the issue. Wambua has made it clear that the government must prioritize the safety and well-being of road users by addressing the challenges posed by deteriorating roads. The Ombudsman has also called for transparent communication and accountability, urging KURA and the Nairobi County Government to work together to provide timely solutions for the residents of Nairobi.
As the deadline for KURA’s response draws closer, it remains to be seen whether the authorities will take the necessary steps to address the ongoing road crises. Nairobi residents, who have long suffered from the poor state of roads, are hopeful that the Ombudsman’s intervention will finally bring about lasting changes. With the city’s road infrastructure affecting not only daily commutes but also the overall economic productivity of the country, it is imperative that the authorities act decisively to restore the quality and safety of Nairobi’s roads.
