Nairobi County authorities have intensified enforcement against landlords who failed to comply with a citywide directive to repaint their buildings. Among those arrested is the owner of the Easy Coach building near the railway station, a high-profile property targeted during raids on Monday and Tuesday.
Suzanne Silantoi, the County Health Executive, stated that the landlords will face charges for disregarding the order issued by the county government. “We do not want to arrest landlords; however, if they do not comply, we are forced to act. Some have already met the directive, and we commend them,” she said.
The crackdown comes after only 41 of the 158 buildings that received notices to repaint complied with the order. Officials revealed that 31 landlords have been evading authorities, prompting a more rigorous enforcement strategy. Chief Health Officer Tom Nyakaba emphasized that the county will not tolerate blatant disregard for its notices, urging owners to cooperate. The campaign will extend to key areas, including Westlands, Upper Hill, Ngara, and Kirinyaga Road.
Landlords found violating the directive risk penalties, including statutory closure, fines, or prosecution. Section 118(b) of the Public Health Act (Cap 242) empowers the county to suspend occupancy or business permits for non-compliant properties, highlighting the government’s commitment to modernizing Nairobi and safeguarding public health.
Governor Johnson Sakaja had earlier waived repainting permit fees to encourage compliance, acknowledging economic challenges facing property owners. The repainting directive, first issued in October, faced delays due to short rains that made painting impractical. The county subsequently granted an additional grace period for completion.
The ongoing campaign underscores Nairobi County’s push to improve the city’s image, ensure public health standards, and hold property owners accountable. Authorities continue to urge all landlords to comply promptly to avoid further legal action.
