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Several gates and a fence around the park have also been put up in a bid to enhance security in and around the facility.
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Each gate also has a sentry box for security guards.
Image: FILE
Until 2022, Uhuru Park had long been a cherished gathering place for Nairobians and visitors alike, offering green spaces and a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
For over 53 years when late Mzee Jomo Kenyatta first opened it to the general public, it has been a home to everyone seeking to relax or fleeing from the hustle and bustle of the Central Business District.
Anyone could easily walk in and enjoy their time, waiting for the sun to set before heading home.
However, following its closure for renovations by the KDF to improve visitor experience, the park has undergone significant changes.
From enhanced facilities to new attractions, the Park has transformed into a lively urban oasis with a range of exciting updates and improvements.
The park, sitting on a 12.9 hectare land will today be officially handed over to the Nairobi city county as it readies to welcome guests.
Let's dive in and discover what the newly renovated park has in store.
Renovations
Some of the works carried out during the period include the creation and sprucing of green spaces, gardens and lawns and the introduction of control access points.
Several gates and a fence around the park have also been put up in a bid to enhance security in and around the facility.
Each gate also has a sentry box for security guards.
One gate is directly opposite Serena Hotel while two others are towards Nyayo House and Parliament buildings.
Shelter gardens and outdoor spaces have also been created including a water cascade, ablution facilities, a skating park and walkways.
Sculptures of wild animals which include warthogs and rhinos have been placed strategically along the grass lawns.
What will no longer happen?
For politicians intending to host political rallies at the park, they will be forced to look for other venues.
The historic pavilion which has over the years been used by the leaders to address their supporters has been demolished.
“Those of us in the political class will look for another venue. Uhuru and and Central Parks belong to the citizens of Nairobi and other Kenyans; that during the weekend they have a choice of going to the mall or the park,” Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said Wednesday.
Noteworthy, accessing the park would require you to deposit the ID card at the entry point.
Initially, one would easily walk in without being asked for the document.
This, according to Governor Johson Sakaja is part of the security measures in place.
What are the new facilities?
The park has manicured lawns, well-maintained trees, enhanced walkways and green spaces.
The lilies pond at the park has been turned into an aquarium named Uhuru Aquascape.
The larger artificial lake at the park has been transformed into a major waterfront with a Swahili restaurant with a footpath crossing over it.
The park also has a botanical space with all species of flowers and plants to capture Kenya’s floral biodiversity, with flowers and plants labelled to enhance learning.
Management offices, event spaces, physical exercise spaces and touristic features and attractions are available.
There will be terraced sitting areas with a biosphere look, a dancing fountain put up along Processional Way, several eateries and two high-end restaurants.