This archive report was first published on 5 July 2019.
On July 4, 2019, Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko proposed doubling the parking fee in the city's central business district (CBD) to KSh 400. The proposal aims to increase revenue for the county government and reduce congestion in the city.
According to the proposal, the increased parking fee would also apply to residential areas, with owners of vehicles required to pay KSh 200 per day. In commercial areas, the fee would be KSh 300 per day.
The proposal has been met with mixed reactions, with some arguing that it would be too expensive for residents and visitors alike. Others have pointed out that the county government has failed to utilize the revenue generated from the current parking fees effectively.
Despite collecting KSh 2 billion in revenue from parking fees annually, the county government has struggled to deliver on its promises to residents. In the 2018/2019 financial year, the city collected only KSh 10 billion in revenue, falling short of its target of KSh 15 billion.
It is worth noting that a similar proposal was made in September 2018, but it was rejected by the county assembly. The proposal was met with resistance from residents and business owners who argued that it would be too expensive and would drive away business from the city.
However, Governor Sonko remains committed to implementing the proposal, which he believes would bring in much-needed revenue for the county government and reduce congestion in the city.
