For years, Kawangware 46 in Dagoretti North, Nairobi, was known for dusty roads, iron-sheet houses, and poor drainage. It was often viewed as an informal settlement with little to offer.
That image is fading fast.
From Iron Sheets to Apartments
Five years ago, most homes here were mud-walled huts or corrugated iron houses. Today, the neighborhood is dotted with high-rise apartments.
Rent has also changed. A room that once cost Ksh 4,000 now goes for almost double. Bedsitters range between Ksh 8,000 and Ksh 12,000, while one-bedroom units can cost up to Ksh 20,000.
A Neighborhood on the Move
The transformation has attracted young professionals, families, and investors. Kawangware 46 now offers:
- A busy open-air market
- Supermarkets and retail shops
- Salons and entertainment spots
- Reliable water supply
- Easy transport to Nairobi CBD
Travel to the city center costs as little as Ksh 30 off-peak and about Ksh 70 during rush hour, making it one of the most affordable city neighborhoods.
Voices from the Ground
Residents say life has changed for the better.
“In the past, people feared coming here at night. Today, business is good,” said a driver at Soko Stage.
Mzee Otieno, a long-time resident, recalls the hard days. Families shared pit latrines, and rains turned the streets into mud. “Now things are different,” he said with pride.
Challenges Ahead
Despite growth, infrastructure still lags behind. Roads and sewage systems need urgent upgrades to match the fast-rising population.
The Bigger Picture
Kawangware 46 is no longer just an informal settlement. It is a story of resilience, growth, and opportunity. With development moving this fast, it may soon be one of Nairobi’s most populated and attractive areas to live and invest.
