Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja's Cabinet has approved a plan to rent and lease open green spaces at Uhuru and Central parks to private businesses.
According to Nairobi County, the move seeks to promote sustainable revenue generation while ensuring environmental preservation and public access.
"The new resolutions include leasing and renting designated spaces within the parks to attract private investment and improve facilities for park users," Governor Sakaja said on Tuesday, December 3.
"This will help establish sustainable income streams to fund park maintenance and development. It will also enhance public amenities by introducing recreational facilities, eateries, and event spaces for public enjoyment," he added.
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Objectives and expected benefits
Minutes from the Cabinet meeting indicate that the County expects to generate revenue, enhance public amenities and promote Public-Private Partnerships by leasing the spaces.
Additionally, the Cabinet noted that the new initiative will ensure environmental sustainability and maintain public access whilst maximizing space utilization.
According to the Cabinet, expected benefits include improved facilities and experiences for park visitors and economic growth through job creation and private sector participation and transparent management of public resources.
Uhuru Park was opened to the public on May 23, 1969, and spans 12.9 hectares and features an artificial lake and various national monuments.
The park is historically significant as a site for political protests, notably led by Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai against land development in the late 1980s.
It has also hosted numerous national celebrations and gatherings. Following renovations, it was reopened on March 30, 2024, continuing its legacy as a vital public space for recreation and assembly.
