Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) is rapidly transforming into a vast construction hub as the county government accelerates the rehabilitation of pedestrian walkways, roads, and public spaces in a bold effort to modernise Kenya’s capital and improve the urban experience for residents and visitors alike.
Across the city centre, contractors are working day and night on multiple infrastructure projects aimed at restoring ageing walkways, easing pedestrian movement, and enhancing the city’s overall appearance. Kimathi Street is among the latest roads undergoing major upgrades as Governor Johnson Sakaja’s administration intensifies its urban renewal agenda.
The transformation is already visible in several parts of the CBD, where newly paved walkways have begun changing the face of the city. Areas around Ambassador, Taifa Lane, the National Archives precinct, Moi Avenue, and Haile Selassie Avenue have become focal points of the ongoing restoration programme.
Pedestrians have welcomed the changes, saying the upgraded walkways are making movement safer, smoother, and more comfortable.
“The city looks great. The cabro paving has made the walkways smoother and more comfortable for pedestrians. This should continue,” said Edward Ichigo, a Nairobi resident.
“We have seen what other cities have done internationally, and what is being done here is a move to catch up. We are happy that this is finally happening in our city,” she said.
Beyond the paving of walkways, the county government is planning a series of enhancements aimed at improving the overall look and feel of Nairobi’s streets. The next phase of the CBD restoration programme will include the installation of benches, flower beds, modern street lighting, and smart waste bins as part of efforts to create more attractive and user-friendly public spaces.
“I want to give Nairobians a beautiful experience. A street is not just about concrete; greenery, lighting, flowers, and public amenities all contribute to the overall user experience. People go through a lot and face tough days. The built environment should help reduce stress and create a sense of pride. You will love your city,” Sakaja said.
The planned additions are expected to complement the ongoing walkway upgrades while helping transform Nairobi into a cleaner, greener, and more welcoming capital.
“The once-dusty Haile Selassie Avenue has now taken on a new look, making movement easier for people accessing Wakulima Market, the Easy Coach stage, and offices along the avenue,” the governor said during a recent inspection of the works.
He noted that the restoration programme is being rolled out in phases across the CBD, with additional improvements planned along Kimathi Street, the Nation Centre corridor, and Moi Avenue, where new walkways and enhanced street lighting are expected to further improve safety and accessibility.
County officials say the projects are designed not only to beautify the city but also to support economic activity by creating a more welcoming environment for businesses, investors, tourists, and daily commuters.
With several sections already completed and more projects progressing steadily, Nairobi residents are increasingly witnessing the physical transformation of their city.
The ongoing works represent one of the most ambitious urban renewal programmes undertaken by the county in recent years, positioning Nairobi for a cleaner, safer, greener, and more modern future.
