This archive report was first published on 19 November 2019.
As Nairobi's population continues to grow, the city's residents are facing a pressing issue: the lack of green spaces. According to a recent discussion on the shifting trends of Nairobi's neighbourhoods, recreational grounds for families and children are shrinking.
One of the most striking examples of this trend is the transformation of roundabouts along Thika Road into mini-Uhuru parks on weekends. These small areas, complete with ice-cream vendors, photographers, and face painting, host hundreds of Nairobians seeking a respite from the concrete jungle.
However, for residents of low-income neighbourhoods such as Githurai, Kasarani, and Mwiki, access to green spaces is a luxury they cannot afford. Traditionally, amenities like Uhuru Park, Jevanjee Gardens, and Nairobi Arboretum have been Nairobi's top escapes from the city's hustle and bustle.
But with the city's rapid development, these green spaces are being squeezed out. In the City Hall's glory days, provision for playgrounds and trees were made, but subsequent developments have prioritized land optimization over green spaces.
As environmental concerns grow globally, the importance of green spaces in mitigating the mental and emotional strain of city living is being highlighted. Progressive urban planners are pushing for more green spaces, and what is needed is legislation and additional resources to improve the city's green initiatives.
A random assessment of available amenities paints a wanting situation. The 'mega-rider' system, which was once a popular means of planning one's budget, is a sampling tool used to map out green spaces. The results along two routes show the need for urgent action from the planning departments.
Successful organizations need to adopt such projects for community relaxation places. NIC Bank's Nairobi River-Grogon rehabilitation and Spinners Industry project around their Ruiru factory are models others could emulate.
