Eastlands tenants face eviction as government redevelops old estates

A view of Nairobi's Mbotela Estate. [File, Standard]

Several government houses in Eastlands, Nairobi have been earmarked for redevelopment as part of the Affordable Housing Programme.

The Ministry of Lands issued a notice on Thursday, February 29, instructing the residents of the affected estates to vacate their homes by April 30, 2024, after clearing any outstanding rent arrears, utility bills, and service charges.

The affected estates include Jogoo Road Phase I & II, Jamaa, Mbotela, Ahero, and Mawenzi Gardens.

Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga said the redevelopment of the old estates would increase rental stock, avail houses for sale to citizens at affordable rates, and create job opportunities for the youth.

"As you are aware, the Government is implementing the Affordable Housing Programme, which is part of the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda. According to this, several old estates have been identified for redevelopment," he said in the notice copied to Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome.

Hinga added that the vacated tenants would be given priority to purchase or rent a house once the redevelopment is complete.

"To pave the way for their redevelopment, there is a need to vacate all tenants residing in these Government estates immediately," he said.