This archive report was first published on 27 November 2019.
On July 1, 2019, the Kenya National Highways Authority announced plans to convert Uhuru Park into a motorway, sparking concerns about the loss of green spaces in Nairobi.
The proposed motorway, which will connect the JKIA with the city centre at three interchanges and the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway, has been met with resistance from public-conscious Kenyans.
While proponents argue that the motorway will decongest the city, provide employment, and reduce the cost of doing business by decreasing commute time, critics argue that the benefits are overstated and the costs are too high.
One of the main concerns is the daily charge of Sh300 for saloon cars, which will be collected through a Public Private Partnership deal with a Chinese firm. This will be a significant burden for many Kenyans, who are already heavily taxed.
Furthermore, the plan to convert Uhuru Park into a motorway raises questions about the government's priorities. While the government claims that only the road reserve around the park will be utilised, many are worried that the park will eventually be lost to development.
As Nairobi continues to grow and urbanise, it is essential that the city prioritises green spaces and sustainable transportation solutions. The city must consider increasing walkable and 'bikeable' spaces, and intercept the city with greenery, rather than thinking about taking up more of the green spaces.
Green spaces are essential for the health and wellbeing of Nairobi's residents, providing clean air, regulating temperatures, and providing a much-needed urban ecosystem. It is time for the government to rethink its priorities and put the needs of the people first.
