This archive report was first published on 11 July 2020.
Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko signed the Nairobi County Transport Bill 2019 into law on Thursday, July 9, 2020. The bill addresses key issues affecting the city's roads, traffic management, and air pollution.
According to Sonko, the bill is a fulfillment of his 2017 campaign promises to Nairobi residents. However, several aspects of the bill rival projects unveiled by the Nairobi Metropolitan Services under General Mohamed Badi.
"The city is growing very fast, and it is essential that we develop new laws to meet the demands of the new setup and the growing population," Sonko stated, citing plans to expand the city to the Kenya Railways land.
The new law, sponsored by Eastleigh MCA Osman Adow, aims to help development planners and investors in the transport sector conform to guidelines that will transform Nairobi into a modern metropolis city.
Key provisions of the bill include streamlining parking in the city, instilling discipline among industry players, and creating a conducive environment for potential investors. The bill also proposes the Capital City Transport Plan, which will be formulated after every five years and will be consistent with the County Integrated Plan.
The bill establishes two critical positions - Chief Officer of Transport and Planning, and one for Infrastructure and Public Works within the Sonko administration.
"Congestion has been the main challenge, but with proper implementation, we can scale it down and benefit matatu operators who are the biggest players," Eastleigh MCA Osman Adow stated.
Sonko also targets installing water pipelines from Kabete to South C, another water pipeline from Kiambu to Embakasi, completion of all health projects, and the building of two more stadia.
On Tuesday, June 30, 2020, General Badi presented his 100-day report to President Uhuru Kenyatta at Harambee House, and on Friday, July 10, laid down his plan for the next 100 days, promising a new face in Nairobi.
