Police in Nairobi on Monday dispersed a group of protesters who had blocked a section of Jogoo Road following a chaotic meeting over a proposed affordable housing project. The protesters, mostly residents of Makongeni Estate, were demonstrating against planned evictions by the Nairobi City County government to pave the way for the housing development.
According to Nairobi police commander George Seda, officers swiftly moved in to restore order and reopen the busy highway to motorists after hours of disruption. “They agreed and left the scene. It is clear now. They were not happy that some of their leaders did not turn up,” Seda said.
The confrontation erupted after a public participation meeting at a local hall turned violent when local leaders boycotted the session. The residents, feeling abandoned and unheard, marched from the hall onto Jogoo Road, lighting bonfires and blocking traffic in protest.
Videos circulating online showed thick plumes of smoke billowing from burning tires as protesters chanted and waved placards demanding that the county government halt eviction plans. The situation caused a major traffic snarl-up, with motorists forced to divert to alternative routes.
Some road users also raised safety concerns, warning that criminal elements had taken advantage of the chaos to rob stranded drivers near City Stadium. Police have since assured the public that the situation has been contained and normal traffic flow restored.
This is not the first time Makongeni residents have taken to the streets to oppose the proposed demolitions. They have repeatedly called on city authorities to consider alternative development models that would not displace long-term residents.
The Nairobi City County government has yet to issue an official statement on the confrontation or clarify how it intends to address the residents’ concerns as it pushes forward with its affordable housing agenda.
