Sakaja announces free weekend parking for private motorists
It is set to run until June 30, 2024.
a y agoFELIX KIPKEMOINews
Governor Johnson Sakaja's administration has announced that motorists will now be allowed to park for free in Nairobi on Saturdays.
Previously, parking fee waiver was applicable on Sundays only.
“Yes, indeed, parking is free on Saturdays. You can come to town, park your car and not pay anything,” Sakaja said in a statement on Saturday.
He said the move by the Nairobi City County is aimed at easing the burden on Nairobi residents.
This means Saturdays and Sundays are now free for motorists in the city, a policy that Sakaja said has been widely welcomed by residents and businesses alike.
“This ensures that we maximise revenue collection during weekdays while giving Nairobians the chance to enjoy free parking over the weekend,” he explained.
In January last year, City Hall temporarily exempted private motorists from paying parking fees every Saturday.
The waiver was issued in line with the Nairobi City County Tax Waivers Administration Act and was to remain in force until June 30, 2024.
Finance CEC Charles Kerich explained that this was made in concurrence with Governor Sakaja.
"In exercise of the powers conferred by section 5 (2) (a) of the Nairobi City County Tax Waivers Administration Act, 2013, the County Executive Committee Member for Finance and Economic Planning in concurrence with the Governor, Nairobi City County, waives parking fees for all private motorist in Nairobi on Saturdays until June 30, 2024," a Gazzete Notice read.
“It aligns with the governor’s broader efforts to enhance the quality of life for Nairobians as well as build a supportive community,” Kerich explained.
The waiver was seen as one aimed at encouraging weekend activities within the city, boosting local businesses and fostering a sense of financial ease for private vehicle owners.
The new directive, Sakaja said, is set to bring significant relief particularly to small business owners operating in the Central Business District (CBD).
It is also expected to contribute to the ongoing efforts by the county boss to make the city more livable and accessible.
Some of the business traders have welcomed the move for the savings it offers.
“Every Saturday, I save at least Sh400 since Sakaja took over. That’s Sh1,600 a month, which I can now invest back into my business. It’s a great move for those of us who rely on private vehicles to operate,” said James Ngunjiri.
Nairobi City County Government has also allowed content creators to shoot videos and take photos over the weekend free of charge.
