Welcome - Know your By - Laws.......Here are 8 of the 17 city by laws
{------------------------------------------------- Our Sponsors -------------------------------------------------------------}
Mandatory business licenses
· Single Business Permits (mandatory) · Fire clearance certificate (mandatory) · Food hygiene certificate (premises selling food) · Medical examination certificate (food handlers) · Small signage / wall branding / vehicle branding All business owners should check that they have the following licenses:
HAWKING
- One can apply for a permit to the Town Clerk for authority to conduct hawking , giving particulars of
- An hawker’s assistant permit may be issued to a person employed to assist the permit holder who:
- The permit is not transferable to another person
- Any person without a valid permit or hawks in an undesignated area risks having their goods impounded.
- Each person engaging in hawking must have a badge and wear it at a conspicuous place.
- Council officers have a right to inspect any goods/ articles being hawked. Blocking an officer from
- Soliciting, inducing, bargaining, negotiating or buying from a hawker in an undesignated area is an offence.
MATATU TERMINI
- Application of parking permit should be made to the Town Clerk.The permit expires on 31st December of the year it is issued.
- Parking permit must be displayed conspicuously on the matatu on which it is issued.
- Parking of any vehicle other than a matatu at a matatu terminus is an offence.
- The permit is not transferrable to another vehicle.
- One needs a written authority of the town clerk to establish a private matatu termini.
- Matatus should only be parked at a matatu terminus and will only stop to pick or drop passengers at a designated bus stop.
- All matatus at terminus should be under direction of an enforcement official.
- One should not drive more than 10 km/hr into the terminus.
- Importuning for passengers on the streets or terminus is an offence
- A matatu abandoned at the terminus without adhering to the by-laws may be removed by an enforcement officer.
- If fees and expenses incurred in the removal of the matatu are not paid within 60 days from day of removal, the council may dispose it to cover outstanding fees and expenses.
- Six or more persons waiting to enter a matatu at a terminus or designated stopping place, must form a queue.
- Hawking of goods at matatu terminus without a permit of the council is illegal.
- All persons in a matatu terminus must follow directions and instructions of enforcement or police officers.
- No person in a matatu terminus shall do the following:
- Obstruct a person from entering and alighting from a matatu.
- Enter the matatu through elsewhere apart from the door.
- Obstruct a conductor or a driver from performing their duties.
- Behave in a disorderly manner.
- Urinate in a public place.
- Interfere or molest anyone.
- Cause any verbal disturbance or any abusive language
- Litter or spit
- Damage council equipment.
FOOD SHOPS AND STORES
- One can apply for a permit to the Town Clerk giving sufficient particulars of the shop.
- The permit expires on 31st December of the year it is issued.
- The town clerk shall not issue a new permit if:-
- The applicant is not a city resident.
- The shop or store does not comply with the city council by laws.
- A person working in a food shop or store must have a valid medical certificate.
- A license or permit holder should display his/her permit at a visible place.
- Any person within the city should not trade in food unless he is in possession of appropriate license or permit.
- Any health inspector has a right to inspect are registered food shop or store at any time. Blocking an officer from doing that duty is an offence.
- Application for new permit or license should be delivered to the Town Clerk not less than 30 days before the date the trading period begins.
- The permit expires on 31st of the year it is issued.
- In case of death, bankruptcy or unsound of mind of a permit holder, the widow or the widower or the trustee or any other person approved by the Town Clerk in writing is to carry on the business without any transfer of permit.
- The restaurant kitchen design structure should be approved by the city council.
- A adequate refrigeration should be provided for maintenance of stored food.
- Every employer in the premise should:
1.Keep him / herself clean always.
2.Refrain from spitting and smoking while cooking.
3.Should cover any cut or bruise on an exposed part with a clean waterproof dressing.
- A permit holder should maintain the premise to the satisfactory of customers.
- Any permit holder of a permit which does not correspond to the premise he is conducting his business from becomes guilty of an offence.
- A council officer has a right to inspect the premises. Blocking an officer from doing so is an offence.
- Every permit holder should place his permit at a conspicuous position in the premise.
- A permit holder should not sell any food which is not sound or wholesome.
- A permit holder should not allow any indecent behavior on the permitted premise.
- Every open air eating place should operate under the following requirements:
1. The council should approve its design structure and should contain adequate sanitary facilities.
2. All persons carrying or handling the food must have valid medical certificates.
3. The permit holder should provide adequate firefighting facilities located strategically within the structure.
PARKING BY –LAWS
Offences
- Placing a signpost or reserving a parking space without authority of the council.
- Parking in a designated parking space without payment of fees
- Parking on a pavement or on council gardens
- Signing, guiding or directing a driver of a vehicle into or out of a parking place.
- Interfering with writing or marks on a parking ticket
- Using a parking space for advertisement or business.
- Damaging a vehicle clamp,removing or attempting to remove the same.
- Obstructing an officer in enforcing these by-laws.
- Knocking down an electricity pole, will lead to the owner paying for the restoration of the pole.
Rules and Regulations
- Non-payment parking fees will lead to clamping and towing of the vehicle. Any vehicle clamped must pay clamping fees to the council.
- Failure to pay towing fees and other expenses incurred by the council within 60 days may lead to disposal of the vehicle, through public auction.
- The parking ticket must be displayed on the front windscreen. on display will imply non payment of the same.
- Parking attendants shall at all time put on a uniform, carry and have with them a proper identification badge issued by the council.
- A parking ticket issued out to a vehicle is not transferable to another vehicle.
- You need a council permit to run a commercial private parking place.
- Vehicles must be parked within the space indicated by lines or any other mark provided by the council.
- The council will not be responsible for damage or loss incurred during clamping or removal of the offending vehicle.
- Parking is free from 2.00pm on Saturdays, whole day Sunday and Public Holidays
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT BY- LAWS
- It is the city council’s duty to regulate waste and its management within the city.
- The council may revoke/cancel a waste operator’s permit in breach of given conditions.
- Waste operators permit is not transferable without the consent of the council.
- The council must provide a place to dispose waste before it is transferrable for final disposal.
- The council should issue directions for different collection charges at different places.
- Any duly authorized officer may inspect a residential dwelling or trade premises at any time.
- Disturbing a waste disposal site or container approved by the council is wrong.
- Organized groups will be given designed areas for small scale resource recovery.
- Any person, who produces,carries, keeps, treats, disposes of waste etc with an exception to domestic household waste, should ensure that the transfer of the waste is made to authorized persons.
- Occupiers/tenants of any building/trade premises must have a sizeable container with a good lid in which the daily domestic waste should be kept.
- Domestic and trade premises occupiers and owners shall separate recyclable waste and place it in a different container provided/approved by the council.
- Premises owners/ occupiers of the premises should ensure hazardous/clinical waste in managed to the satisfaction of the council.
- It is the duty of any of who generates trade waste to ensure it does not pollute the environment.
- Burning, throwing away etc of waste in an inappropriate place is an offence.
GENERAL NUISANCE BY –LAWS
Offences
- Making any kind of noise on the streets.
- Causing risk to users through destruction of a building or road.
- Causing risk to users through inadequate fenced or unfenced land, lack of repair, protection, removal or enclosure; leaving things around that may make one to fall and discharge a missile in or near a street.
- Destroying the surface of a public street
- Willfully blocking a free passage or removal/displacement of any council property.
- Cutting down a tree without a permit from the council.
- Playing any game, riding or driving or propelling on a foot path.
- Defacing any building by writing signs or graffiti.
- Depositing any type of material or waste on the streets.
- Spitting on any footpath or blowing the nose aimlessly other than into a suitable clothe or tissue.
- Committing any act contrary to public decency.
- Loitering, importuning or attempting to procure a female/male for prostitution purpose.
- Defecating or urinating on a street or any other space.
- Conveyance of open food in a manner likely to cause contamination.
- Keeping any animal or poultry which causes a nuisance to any resident in the neighborhood.
- Washing, repairing or dismantling any vehicle in a prohibited area except in the case of emergency.
- Touting for passengers.
- Failure to observe traffic lights or zebra crossing.
- Driving or permitting to be driven in any overloaded vehicle such that its contents are spilling.
- Allowing hedges and trees to encroach and pose a danger to traffic movement.
Rules and regulations
- All trees hedges or other growth should be chopped trimmed or removed.
- All meat poultry for sale should be inspected.
- Every building must be painted at least once every year.
- A landlord should ensure that the frontage of a building is kept clean, in good condition and well repair
- A building owner should ensure installation of security lights in the front of the building.
FIRE BRIGADE BY LAWS
Offences
- Entering any premises which are on fire without authorization from the senior fire officer.
- Obscuring, defacing or removing a plate fixed on any fire hydrant.
- Obstructing molesting or interfering with any member of the fire brigade when on duty.
- Giving false alarm to the fire brigade.
- Making or causing fire.
- Denying entry or obstructing an officer from inspecting or getting any information from any premise.
- Using premises without obtaining a fire prevention clearance certificate from the chief fire officer.
- It is the duty of the senior fire officer present at the scene of any fire to control all the operations.
- The chief fire officer may permit the owner or occupier of any building to connect an automatic fire system to the fire brigade premises.
- The senior fire officer present may enter or break into any premises within the city which appear to be on fire without consent from any person.
- A senior officer may temporarily close any street, passage or thoroughfare in or near which a fire exists.
- During fire fighting, a senior fire officer has the power to use any supply of water whether on public or private property.
- The council may at any time instruct a person to remove any material that is most likely to cause fire.
- Owners should pay for firefighting services whether the owner requested for attendance or not.
- The chief fire officer will inspect premises to ensure they comply with fire safety.
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF FIRE.
- Do not panic.
- Sound the alarm (electronic or shout “fire”).
- Fight the fire if safe to do so.
- Call the fire brigade(2222181/2), giving the correct physical address (road/building name, telephone numbers and contacts).
- Evacuate using escape route.
- Close windows and doors behind you (do not lock doors).
- Do not use lifts.
- Proceed to the assembly point for head count.
- Do not re-enter until told to do so by the fire personnel.
This is a great idea, and i hope that it will be used to inspire great ideas that will help Nairobi transform into a world class city.
Phillip implementation is key.
all the best,
Regards,
Kip.
Reply to this
You can have wireless terminals on a wide area network for packing purposes.
Reply to this
My comment is based on Public transport system in Nairobi and the evirons. My suggestion is create a Transport Commission called Nairobi Transit Commission(NTC)like the one we have here in Toronto, Canada which manages the transport system in the city. Each matatu owner would surrender his or her vehicle to the Commissiom and would have shares in this commision. The current matatu drivers would be given first priority to be employed as drivers in the Commision. This would bring order in the way the transport system is operated in the city. This would coordinate the transport system in the city so that any commuter using a train or a bus or a Matatu would be able to use one transfer ticket while connecting with either with a bus or a train or a matatu. To make this possible, all means of trasport in the city should be operated under the same Commission. This is how it is operated in Toronto, Canada.In Toronto, though, we do not have matatus. We have buses and trains. So,In the NTC,some adjustments can be made to accommodate matatus for short distances.
Reply to this
Free market always works and Local problems need local solutions. The Toronto solution is not a free market option and will create another center for corruption (we already have enough that are being eliminated). The problem is an urban planning one and needs to be solved!! Let Mr.Kisia come up with an Urban Plan that can get a thumps up from a majority of the stakeholders and he will be good to go.
Reply to this
You may want to draw from members of the AAK who had undertaken a study on transportation systems in cities of recently developed countries around the world.
Reply to this
There is a big problem of corruption here in kenya and many matatu owners would feel their investment will be used to enrich the NTC commissioners
Reply to this
This is very brilliant i have had similar thoughts. i am happy that we can think in the same line. some changes have shown that nairobi can improve i have seen the introduction of one way streets that were previously two way decongest the ncbd and create more parking which is required in the city.
Your idea will work perfect in reducing congestion and creating some minimal standards of public transport. Currently what we have i chaos, thuggery, price hikes when it drizzles, police corruption the list is long.
This new system would create harmony and order in the city. ORDER IS ONE OF THE BASIC CONCEPTS OF A CITY THAT WE HAVE FOR A LONG TIME ASSUMMED.
Care should be taken on managers of such a commission some characters in kenya are tricky and would turn a good intended commision into a cashcow.
On one hand we have to embrace some sort of civilization.
Reply to this
the idea is very good.
how do u prevent NTC from being corrupted and politicised like all other institutions in Nairobi?
i am convinced that we must crack these behaviourable issues first after which every other thing will fallin. we hardly pull together. we have a vision but hardly work towards it.
i am so disturbed by these issues
Reply to this
I have followed your debate on the various options available for urban transport and will forward them to the City Engineer for consideration. I am certain that your views will guide the transport policy for the city.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
SWITCH ON ALL THE TRAFFIC LIGHTS ON UHURU HIGHWAY AND MOMBASA ROAD.
Reply to this
The lights on Uhuru Highway and Mombasa road have not been handed over to the Council. They are still in the hands of the contractor who was given the tender by the Ministry of roads.
Reply to this
Revitalizing Nairobi City is a great challenge, but it also offers an opportunity for innovative ideas.Sieze this opportunity to start of nairobi on the path of a sustainable green city. from Green economy all the way to a green society.Nairobi need not go the way of major cities like Chicago, Atlanta,New York etc.We can borrow from them, avoid the pitfalls they encountered. i belive we have enough human resource to come up with practical sustainable urban planning solutions-including this one writing now!
Reply to this
This is a worthwhile endevour that the environment department can take up and implement. Indeed this should be a green city in the sun.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
Revise the zoning regulation on plot ratios and coverage for areas like donholm, langata, etc. Many developments already done contravene the stipulated low coverages which is no longer realistic with our rapid growth.There shall be no need to apply for extensions of user per site. The
City of Shanghai in China has many 40 story apartment blocks, well serviced including sewer treatment plants within each sector. Give it a try!
Reply to this
I have sampled your comments and forwarded them to the Planning Department for their views. Soon I will be able to give the position of the Council.
Philip KisiaReply to this
It is true that the city’s development density control instruments are not in tune with the social, economic and cultural realities of realities of urban development in the city. Investors only engage in the urban development if and when it is profitable or viable. The plot ratios and coverage is violated due to the high cost of land, capital and construction which affect the commercial viability of any development. However, the Council has started the process of developing a master plan to address these issues holistically.
Reply to this
Nice idea definately
Its would be nice to have a guided forum and the best way is to list challenges and expected actions and timelines including feasibility tehereafter
prioritize them e.g. Transport, waste disposal, sewer, water, energy, pollution....development control. We are in a dire situation. Let not end up with a long list of problem without action, and form a group of whiners!
Reply to this
Thanks for your encouragement. I shall take up your views and will keep you informed on their implementation. Thanks again for your suggestions.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
This is one of the best news to come from City Hall in Years. I am a graduate student overseas specialising in the Urban Environment Design and Planning, and I will be contributing regularly to this blog. I was very angry and disappointed with City Hall in March of this year as I was tossed from office to office when I sought audience for my research, please begin by making the officers work for their money and be responsive, courteous and zealous in their work. Their attitude towards their works, visitors and researchers give a very negative image of the council. However, I am looking forth to contributing ideas, information and anything else that will lift the glory of our city from its many vices. Keep it up guys.
Reply to this
Sorry for the experiences you went through. In a short while all Council employees will embrace service delivery. As a matter of fact , at the moment there is a transformation on how the employees relate with the members of the public. I look forward to receiving your ideas and suggestions.
Philip KisiaReply to this
It is true that the Council employees have started embracing service delivery. I couldn't believe my eyes when I went to collect my biz license. I was greeted, shown a place to wait & it literally took me less than five minutes to get my license. Keep it up Mr. P. Kisia. There is a wave of change at the Council!
Reply to this
Thanks for your encouraging observation. We strive to exceed your expectations in service delivery.
Reply to this
On Matters transport, we need to have a serious evaluation of our needs, who do want to take to the CBD? what are the implications of our actions. I will take a good example of the famous Muthurwa bus terminus. A bus with 50 passengers from Kayole is stopped at Muthurwa and the 50 plus people have to look for other means to the CBD. while at the same time a car from jogoo road with only one occupant is allowed into the CBD. There is definitely something wrong.
Our city operates on the basis of making life easier for the person who is driving his car while making it harder for the mass transport vehicles. Matatu may have committed the crimes of flouting rules but i believe that when priority on our roads will be given to mass transporters our problems will be half solved.
The relocation of matatu stages to Muthurwa has created a niche for Bodaboda cyclists and with time the city will be faced with a very serious challenges of controlling them.
we can borrow a leaf from indonesia and model a mass transport system along the lines of Trans Jakarta. Its time we modeled a mass transport system that is reliable and efficient so that everyone is compelled to leave his car at home.
Reply to this
Thanks for your observations. Soon the Council will come up with a transport policy to guide the operations of urban transport in the City.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
dear Sir , i am a practicing veterinarian. in nbi for the last 29 years. my comments are on the issues concerning dogs in particular.
1) all dog owners are forced , by an ancient law of 1948 , to purchase dog licences for 500/= . I ask , what are the benifits to the dog owners for purchasing these ? where is this money used ? there are no council disposal services for removal of dead dogs , no feed back on any lost or found dogs ? is it just the normal KENYAN THING ?
2) There has been talk of limiting the total number of dogs to 4 ? why ? i beleive it is an individual kenyans RIGHT to own what he can afford , b) an individual kenyans right to protect himself and his kin and property as he see fit c) keep , what gives him pleasure , be it 5 cars or more , 4 wives or 20 dogs !!!!!.
3) your office has commented that owners of all dogs that bark , shall be liable to a fine !!! Please tell me how i may teach my dog to knock my door and /ring my door bell and inform me "boss , sorry to wake u but there are some people trying to BREAK IN !! once i learn this from your personell who suggested this , we can open an international company and live happily ever after !!!
Sir with due respect all SUGESSTIONS ARE MORE THEN REDICULOUS !!!
lets wake up and show the world we are also thinkers and not just jokers !!
why doesnt your office start with a night patrol and stop loud music from all bars , and also rather then haressing people who try to paint the exteriors of their property , start by stopping the licences of all bars in residential areas and then we can teach dogs to knock doors
enjoy your day sir
Reply to this
Thank you for your feedback on the Council by laws. We shall strive to ensure that the bylaws are relevant to enhancing service delivery to the city residents. We shall also ensure that all our bylaws are simplified for public consumption.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
I have been wondering about the exorbitant parking charges by shopping malls such as westgate, prestiege, junction and others. The parking spaces there are requirements by the city council building by laws. The developer is supposed to surrender certain space to be for public use in order that the development is viable. Such space includes parking. I would like the city council to clarify whether it is legal thereafter for the developer to charge users of this public utility spaces such as parking. This has become a channel for enriching a few. Why can't the city council take charge of these parkings and earn extra money which then benefit all of us. You can also make an exception for people who have already paid the city council parking charges for the day or month. I was at the junction recently where I took supper at Java, went for shopping, then finished of with a movie just to come out and be charged Kshs 100 for parking and bringing business there. Is this legal?
Reply to this
I have forwarded your suggestions on parking to the City Engineer for consideration. I will get back to you in due course.
Philip KisiaReply to this
From the planning point of view, parkings provide in the developments that house retail outlets like the malls, are supposed to accommodate traffic needs of the outlets. Our concern with charging will only come, if accessibility to the car parks is hindered and there is over spill of traffic to cause nuisance. Ultimately, customers have to make choices concerning shopping where car parks are charged or otherwise. Otherwise the Council has no jurisdiction over the matter except only when it generates disorder in the wider context.
Reply to this
Thanks for this forum Mr. Kisia, I am raring to go on this blog!
Nairobi ought to be more socially and economically inclusive, rather than exclusive. As we approach the UN's MDGs and the GoK's Vision 2030 deadlines can we find ways to integrate formal and informal businesses and settlements?
Reply to this
Thanks for your support on the initiative of this forum. Currently, we are working on the informal sector rapid transformation initiative that will see the integration of informal sector into the national economy. We are doing this in partnership with the private sector. I will post details once this process is ready for take off.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
the need to remove small passenger vans needs to be emphasized. the minimum number of passengers should be at least 40.
Reply to this
Hi, I agree with you completely. I also wish we would have scheduled buses from i.e Westlands to town at specific times.
Reply to this
Thanks for your views on urban transport management in the city. We shall soon develop a transport policy that will guide the operation of public transport vehicles in the city. However, I agree that we need high capacity vehicles in the CBD.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
I think we need to link the industrial area to the CBD by creating two flyovers over the railway station. One from ndunga road landing at kenya polytechnic and another from enterprise road. These would ease pressure on msa road
Reply to this
Thanks for your suggestions regarding introducing flyovers in the city, with a view to reducing traffic congestion on Mombasa road. I have forwarded your suggestions to the City Engineer for consideration. I will revert to you on the above matter.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
Congrats! This is in keeping with the modern management style-involvement of stakeholders in decision making. On cleanliness; could you please pass a bylaw that requires all public transport vehicles to carry a solid waste paper bag with them for commuters to deposit their waste instead of throwing it through the window on clean roads.
Reply to this
Thanks for your support. Your suggestion on solid waste management has been forwarded to the Environment Department for consideration.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
There should be a metro subway line from airport to james gichuru. the NCC( Nairobi city council) should plan that and ask money from the donor community. There will be copenhagen 2009 meeting where all the donors are prepared to give money for climate change. I think that would be the best option for nairobi to get money for subway and mitigate the effects of climate change. All the best.
Reply to this
Thanks for your visionary comments. Enactment of the same will indeed make vision 2030 a reality. However, due to the resources required the council will need support from other stakeholders.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
I propose that designated routes for buses and matatus should be used and the council should enforce the use of such roads..
These days we find matatus and buses along smaller internal access roads in Kilimani area. Such roads are Menelik road, Lenana road among others.
Reply to this
Thanks for your comments. They have been forwarded to the city engineer for consideration.
Reply to this
There are many small building in the CBD that are old, inefficient, unsafe and unsightly and they are not gazetted monuments, The NCC should force the owners to develop them and give them a timeline, The owners should be able to get financing for these prime properties
Reply to this
Thanks for your ideas regarding the aged buildings in the city. We have taken up your suggestions with a view to enhancing the aesthetic value of the buildings in the city. I will inform you on the progress made.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
kindly be informed that, the parcel lands/plots on which buildings within the CBD are constructed are privately owned. In principle, the city council of Nairobi, has no authority to force or command the property owners on what and how to utilize their properties, as long as the buildings comply with the planning policies and requirements of land use, within the Central Business District(CBD)
Reply to this
I have written a suggestion on how to prevent the next building collapse in the dreamcities forum website. I hope you get to read it, but please note that this suggestion would be null and void if the Housing Bill 2009 comes into force.
Reply to this
I would appreciate if you shared your ideas on preventive measures in the construction industry, with the other contributors on this forum. Thank you for your initiative.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
hi all,
what guys are suggesting on this blog seems to be quite enlightening. problem is that i do not see City hall following up on any suggestions leave alone implementic. Mr. Kisia Prove me wrong
Reply to this
I assure you that this platform will be the basis of service delivery innovations by the City Council of Nairobi. All practical ideas aimed at enhancing service delivery will be implemented. I count on your support and contributions.
Philip KisiaReply to this
This is a great opportunity for stakeholders to give their views and proposals. To rid the city cent re of traffic, I propose the area between Museum Hill and Kariokor along Nairobi river be turned into Matatu terminus for matatus from Westlands area, Limuru Road, Murang'a Road, Park road, Ring road (Kariokor) and eastleigh. The mechanics can be allocated another area within nairobi to operate from. Including Ngara Market and the open air Market at Ngara. Build another Bridge to connect Ngara and Town Vide Shan Cinema opposite Ngara post office. This will reduce the traffic flow on Globe Cinema round about. IF THIS LAND IS NOT UTILISED NOW FOR THIS NOBLE VENTURE, THEN I FORESEE THE LAND BEING GRABBED AS IS THE NORM IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS THAT LAND WILL BE GONE AND WE WILL HAVE CHOKED THE CITY CENTRE. JUST LIKE THE LAND NEXT TO KARIOKOR.
Regarding the issue of parking, The city council must come up with a law requiring all new buildings coming up to have parking for Tenants and customers. Like any building with three floors must have one floor as parking. Six floors where two must be parking lots and so on. As they maximize the use of their properties, city council does not have expanding land to take care of the landlords negligence of their customers/tenants
Reply to this
Thanks for your suggestions on traffic management and parking spaces on buildings. I have forwarded your ides to the City Engineer and Director City planning for consideration. I will revert back on their thoughts.
Philip KisiaReply to this
Your concerns regarding traffic management are vital. Currently, we are redefining the CBD for purposes of improving traffic management. This program also includes determining the appropriate location for a terminii. Your contribution towards this endevour is welcome.
Reply to this
Excellent... please keep it updated coz u will get a better sense of what is going in our heads on by letting us know your thoughts/ideas.
Do you have a twitter account as well?
Reply to this
Thanks for your encouragement. I count on your support. Unfortunately, we do not have a twitter account.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
Hi Mr Kisia.
I have been thinking of quite a number of things that would make the NCC more proactive to the needs of the Nairobi citizens and what the future holds which i will be updating as time goes by.
Now in terms of the Nairobi Sewerage System i keep wondering isnt there a possibility of using the plant to produce electricity from the waste that is thrown away. I know you are in consultations with GE on burning the rubbish to produce electricity but i think that would be another option to pursue.
Thanks
Reply to this
I agree with your views and the Council is moving towards that direction. We shall inform the public on the various initiatives we shall undertake towards that end.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
Thsi is a brilliant idea and it is my hope that it will be put to good use.
My comments on the design of the page, seeing as we are speaking about Nairobi it would not hurt if we had a few pictures of the city.
Looking forward to contributing implementable ideas.
Reply to this
Thanks for you suggestions. We shall see the possibility of enacting them.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
we need to do something about our transport system and housind situation,the city inspectorate depaertment is also harasing ppl unnesesarily,you need to put a stop to that too .The other thing i would like to point out is the gabage collection ,you guys are trying but you can do better
Reply to this
Thanks for your encouraging remarks. We are striving to take corrective measures to ensure you outlined comments are enacted.
Philip kisia
Reply to this
Hi Phillip,
Would you like to come and talk at Africa Gathering in Nairobi in December about how you're using social media to change the city for the better? Please email us so we can talk!
The Africa Gathering team
Reply to this
Send me details of the meeting on: info@nairobicity.go.ke to enable me make explore the possibility of attending your gathering.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
On my way home I use Langata South Road. It is the only old road in the area which City Hall has failed to recarpet for over 20 years, hence deep vehicle-damaging pot holes always develop after only a week of rains. It then takes at least 6 months of pleading before some low quality patching is done, giving a permanent bumpy ride. It will be a huge cost saving for users of that road if it is recarpeted. Further, due the narrow width of Langata South and Ushirika Roads, it always a treacherous drive reslting in many accidents. My friend met his death there in 2007 when he was pushed by another vehicled off the road just after Hardy Police Station.So, we will be saving cost and lives if we recarpet and widen the two roads. These days, motorists are forced to slow down to near stopping whenever they see a City Hopper, the most dangerously driven PSV's.
Reply to this
I have seen your comments concerning the state of Langata road, and the nature of repairs that took place along the different stretches of the road. I have forwarded the observation to the City Engineer for noting and remedy. I will inform you on the progress made.
Philip Kisia
Reply to this
This is the future Bwana Town Clerk. Many Kenyans have always wanted to communicate with the council in such an efficient way, I bet you have given us that medium through which we can engage you, the Chief Officers and the town Fathers. Let us all join in and build our Nairobi
Reply to this
Thanks for your support for this initiative. I look forward to engaging you on this platform.
Reply to this
Hi Mr.Philip Kisia.
I am a resident of Amboseli Lane off Amboseli Road in Thomson Estate within Lavington Area.Recently around March/April,you(NCC)undertook tarmacking of this Lane.However,potholes appeared immediately the contractor left the site.This obviously indicates there was poor workmanship and waste of public funds on this project.Does it mean the specifications and BoQs were not adhered to or were they simply inadequate?.Or does it simply mean that the the works were never supervised properly?.As residents of this place,we would be glad to know your action on this and would be grateful if this contractor is called back to re-do this road and the engineer in charge disciplined for the sake of our city.
Reply to this
Thanks for your concern on the state of works on the road. I have taken up the matter and will inform you on the progress made.
Reply to this
Thankyou for highlighting the by-laws, we do need to know in order to comply.
Reply to this
Great idea Philip!
now we can talk to each other as residents and participate in building our city.
I've just concluded a function at the Charter Hall and you need to work on staff motivation. I know you did it a KICC so I wish you all the best here too.
Reply to this
Thanks for your encouraging remarks. I have spelt out different measures aimed at enhancing staff motivation. I aasure you that service delivery will be enhanced.
Reply to this
Dear Sir
I'm very happy to see that you are willing to do things differently.This is the way to go sir. Congratulations!
I think the biggest problem at NCC is lack of sense of purpose. Bye-laws are meant to make life better for those living in a city.Unfortunately, in our case they are meant to enrich a few people who work at City Hall to the detriment of Nairobians.They are just avenues for corruption which is very sad. We are thanking God for you and please be encouraged. It will take more than this to return Nairobi to being the City in the Sun it once was.
God bless Kisia!
Reply to this
Public awareness and empowerment makes service delivery transparent. That is why we have simplified these by laws for public consumption. The remaining 13 by laws will also be simplified and posted. I hope this measure will reduce public ignorance. Thank you for your encouragement.
Reply to this
Dear Mr. Kisia,
Well done sir on bringing the citizens closer to there service providers. I believe that this shall go far in improving and assisting you in doing your job better and cut down corruption.
Am resident of Woodley estate, last month November 2009, we were lucky enough to have gotten one of our roads tarmacked. The road is kinoo road and it leads to the Joseph Kangethe social hall and the Nairobi Water offices for the southern zone. We are extremely grateful for the consideration and it is for this reason that i would like to help or assist you in asking of you to visit and see for yourself, asses the works carried out by the contractor and see how shoddy the works are. Its now one month from when it was done and the road has potholes forming yet it was fully carpeted. And there are areas that the contractor left out on.
I fill that there are those out there that thrive on pulling the good works of people like you and progress of our country down but with the help of such sights/works and residents like me, we shall try to keep your good flame burning.
Kindly sort this before the contractor gets paid to avoid your council loosing revenue to useless contractors.
Regards,
Micheal.
Reply to this
The contractor has been instructed to go back and expedite drainage works, which he had halted due to increase in seasonal rains. He has also been instructed to address the quality of works on the same road.
Reply to this
Happy New year Mr. Kisia
I would like to take this opportunity to really congratulate you for your effort in taking CCN to the digital age, some of the comments given by Nairobi residents In the blog are quite awakening and as an employee of the City Council i am encouraged yet challenged in my area of work. we need to step up so that residents can actually get the services they deserve. this is a good platform for us to get such information on where we need to improve and also keep up.
kudos and keep up the good work. Regards
Villy
Reply to this
Thank you for your encouraging remarks. I count on you to enhance service delivery to the city residents in order to meet their high expectations.
Reply to this
Dear Mr. Kisia,
Thank you for your great job. however dont forget those who are helping you in service delivery. we have polle your supplies who have not been paid to date. it is almost becoming an 8 to 5 job to sit at your council offices waiting for a cheque to be released. it is always the same story on a daily basis. come tomorrow, come tomorrow. poeple have bill to pay employyees who work to pay, kindly would you consider the people working for you and enable to council release thier payments?
we have your garbage collectiors who have been sitting there not paid. since october i know one who sits waiting for a cheuqe to be given. what would happen if a council member or if you for instance went 3 months with out pay? trust me the feedback out here on payments from the council is not a good one.
please help the people service you better.
thank you very much and hope to see a response soon . . . . .
Reply to this
A large number of the NEW streetlights on Kyuna Road are not operational at night. Some are on in the daytime. Also what are plans to remove the old streetlight poles on this and other city roads - many are leaning dangerously as they are rusted.
Reply to this
Thanks for pointing out this occurance. Our maintenance team will step up its activities regarding he lights.
Reply to this
Thanks for your comments. It is important to note that the above area is prone to vandalism of the street lights through theft of underground cables. The council is making arrangements to replace the cables. On that note, the lights that are on during the day have been rectified while a programme to remove the old poles has been initiated. Kindly pass information to members of the public not to vandalise Council property.
Reply to this
Hallo Mr Kisia.
I really do aplaud you for the bright idea that you came with. it helps us to voice our concerns. My concern are as follows
1. Please do place mettalic grills barries like the ones we have in CDB at the strecth of landthies road and hailes selasie road. this will greatly reduce human and motor traffic on this road and also reduce pick pocketing. The road has been notorious wih people crossing anyhowly and causing traffic and yet there is two crossing bridges. please help ecspecally in wakulima market entrace.
2. Be having suprise visits on your delivery service points. i.e Makadara, Dandora, Eastleigh, Kayole and see how your staff behave. latecomers, dont care attitude and highly corrupt.
3. Force i repeat force your officers to be in council uniforrms wherever they operate. There are many conmen out in the CBD and they hire councila askaris ID to corrupt. when asked to produce ID they quickly flush it out and return it back when youve just seen the council ID
Reply to this
Thank you for comments regarding putting up of bollards on Landies road and Haile selassie, conduct of staff and uniform for council employees. We shall incorporate your ideas into our operations.
Reply to this
Thanks for your input. A contractor is on site at Landhies road and Haille Sellasie Avenue. The scope of work includes placement of barriers on the median.
I also agree with your suggestion on impromptu visits to service delivery points. This, coupled with askaris in uniform will enhance service delivery. Due to the large work force, it is taking longer than necessary to procure the same.
Reply to this
When parking in the CBD was increased to Ksh 140, the idea was to discourage people parking within the CBD unless absolutely necessary. Some parking spaces were also done away with.
The above would work if a systems was introduced where parking outside the CBD would be cheaper. For instance, parking on Nyerere Rd or Uhuru park pavilion area could be pegged at Kshs 100 and a slightly lower rate at designated points out of town. I believe this would free up more space within the CBD and still make economic sense to people having to take a bus/matatu into the CBD after parking on the outskirts.
Reply to this
Thanks for your input on traffic management. We are coming up with proposals on different parking rates for the different parts in the city. We shall implement it once the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Local Government gazettes it.
Reply to this
Thats an excellent idea. The Council is in the process of gazzetting charges that are dependent on location of parking. The CBD will attract the highest rate, while remote locations will have lower charges.
Reply to this
Thanks Mr.Kisia for providing such a powerful means of communication, my concern is the level of service delivery to the peaple of Eastlands, its no wonder for us to live with broken sewerage systems for months whilst council officiils ignore our plight, we dont ask for more than what direclty concerns our health, mt take is there should be a way of streamlining performance by your officials. Secondly is the state of the estate roads in the estates, no one has ever cared to make an attempt to even water dusty roads,withn the estates let alone repairing them, you wouldnt believe the kind of life we live in here just beacouse some peaple are more keen at portraing you as anon performer as compared to your predecessor, by now am sure reality has sink in that the position you hold is more political than any other else and thats how you should act!!
Reply to this
I agree on the state of disrepair of the infrastructure in Eastleigh. However, the Council and other government bodies chaired by Kenya Urban Roads Authority, are handling the infrastructure in Eastleigh. In the meantime, the Council has undertaken repair of General Waruinge Street.
Reply to this
I do agree that Eastlands is in a bad state. However, the Council is up to the task. For instance, we have informed Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company to repairs the broken sewers on Rabai road, Mfududu street and 1st Avenue Eastleigh.
Similarly, we have budgeted for maintenance of Buruburu estate roads in the next financial year. So far we have been concentrating to repair the access roads at the expense of estate roads due to limited funding.
Finally, Landhies road has been contracted out, and the contractor will be on site soon. The drainage system has been considered in the design.
Thanks for your concern.
Reply to this
another road that is of concern and is getting worse by the day is Ojijo road. Please budget for this as well.
Reply to this
Thanks for highlighting the state of Ojijo road. We will consider the possibility of having it in the next budget subject to availability of funds.
Reply to this
Dear Mr. Kisia,
What is the council doing about sorry state of landhis RD?
Can muthurwa market have a proper drainage system to avoid flooding this rd?
Reply to this
The repair works will start soon. Muthurwa market is still under the Ministry of Local Government. But once its handed to us, we shall take appropriate measures.
Reply to this
The Council has awarded tender for works to M/S Crescent contractors Ltd. These works will commence in a months time and will take 8 months to complete. Similarly, metal barriers will be erected to protect pedestrians.
On the other hand, the Council has noted that burst sewers destroy the roads. Therefore, we are vigilant to ensure any incident is reported to Nairobi water and sewerage company.
Reply to this
Hi Phillip. This is a perfect way to talk to the city fathers. I've a question about the Kangemi market. For those of us who use this road every day, there is always a traffic jam caused by this market that is literally on the tarmac! Not to mention the risks that these men and women subject themselves into. Remedy, the market needs to be moved, the stage needs to be expanded so that Matatus do not drop and pick on the road,the minor road behind the market needs to be re-opened (has been converted to a market also) and security needs to be improved generally around the area. This might a lot to ask but the relocation of the market is long overdue. Kangethe
Reply to this
I have seen your comments and will forward them to the Director of Social Services and City inspectorate for appropriate comments and action.
Reply to this
Hi Phillip,
First i would like to commend you for this great forum you have created for residents of Nairobi. I am a resident of woodley estate
1. I note with great concern there has been a private developer paying visits to the field in woodley estate next to the flats, alot of land has been grabbed in this area and our children denied a chance to have recreational facilities and playing grounds.
What is the councils plan for these unscrupulous individuals? I propose we amend the by laws and introduce a law to hang such individuals.
2. Is there anything in the pipeline for solid waste management and environmental management, i wish to remind you the council used to come and clean the environment frequently i.e cut the hedges, collect garbage, clean the drains. Is this still a responsibility of the council?
3. Could the council please come up with a way to regulate the market next to Uchumi Supermarket. It serves a good purpose however it has become a serious nuisance due to the encroachment of the roads.
Thank you for the effort you are taking to enforce existing by laws and put the city council in the ICT arena
Please publicize this forum and embrace social media(twitter, facebook)as well as public forums, i can assure you there are millions of Kenyans out there who would like to share great ideas and source finance for the same.
Simon
Reply to this
The Council is keen in ensuring that public property is safeguarded. However, you may inform me on any illegal activities on info@nairobicity.go.ke for my action.
Similarly the Council is awaiting cabinet approval on Integrated Solid Waste Management proposal by the Council. After the approval, management of waste in the city will no longer be a challenge.
I have noted your concern on the market, and will take appropriate action. Thank you for the contributions and encouraging remarks.
Reply to this
Hi Phillip,
Thank you for your response i will forward my concerns to the email address shortly.
I would like to also take note of the looming parking crisis in Nairobi City. I have noted there are tens of building in the CBD that are not in use currently. What is the possibility of the council patnering with the owners of these buildings to bring them down and construct storied parking bays, i believe there was a plan to build one of these some years back but it seems to have fizzled off. Could we revisit this issue, i am sure you are aware this works extremely well in Auckland, New Zealand.
Best Regards
Simon
Reply to this
It is true that parking has become a nightmare in the city. However, the Council may not be able to compel owners of private properties to construct parking silos. On the contrary we are exploring different ways of developing more vertical parking space in the city through private public partnership. Thanks for your comments.
Reply to this
The Council has received technical support from JICA & UNEP in developing an integrated solid waste management system for the City. The master plan will be ready for implementation by August 2010. However, routine activities of hedge trimming, waste collection and drain clearing are continuously being performed by the Council.
Reply to this
The Council appreciates that the city population is growing rapidly, hence need for adequate public utilities. The Council is undertaking a study of all public utility spaces in Woodley and ensure that only developments that met our guidelines are allowed.
Reply to this
Dear Mr Kisia,
Thank you very much for starting this blog, an excellent forum for improving the welfare of Nairobi residents. I wish to report that a road reserve in Villa Franca (off Mombasa Road), on the eatern boundary of the Kenya-Re Estate has been alienated by one of your public officials, demarcated into plots and sold to unsuspecting members of the public. Could you please investigate this breach of planning regulations and take necessary action.
Reply to this
Thanks for the information. I will take up the necessary steps to get the facts and take necessary steps.
Reply to this
There are a lot of bye -laws , however many are not followed. For example, there is a bye law against obstruction on public road. However, Matatus always stop where they please without regard to other users causing endless jams. For example, at westlands roundabout at beginning of Chiromo road the matatus stop on the road (instead of the bus stop a few meters away) block two lanes at a time (especially peak hours) thus causing a bottleneck into the westlands roundabout. The same happens at Highridge (Nakumatt) where in spite of having a bus stop the matatus just don't use this but instead stop for drop off/pick ups in the middle of the road causing endless jams at the junction. Is it that Matatu drivers are taought how to be a nuisance AND get away with it? Are thsy a protected industry? Yes they are necessary BUT they should not be above the law and cause such inconveniences to other users.
Reply to this
I have noted your concern and will inform the Director of city Inspectorate to take appropriate measures.
Reply to this
Bwana Kisia, I hope you are well, I am not!! I live in Ngei Phase 1 in Langata are and since the beginning of this year, we have no water in our taps. Towards the end of last year, the water used to trickle but since the beginning of this year, we getting drops instead. It does not make any sense to us the residents of the area, that with all the rain causing floods in our country, we cannot flush toilets in our houses. What is causing this? Previously the excuses were the dams have no water due to drought. What excuse can you give us now? Actually we are not interested in excuses, we want water period.
Reply to this
Sorry, about your predicament, but all matters on sewerage and water should be handled by the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company. Kindly report your predicament to the Company.
Reply to this
KUDOS TO MR MARUBE - THE PRESENTATION HE MADE AT THE NAIROBI PENTECOSTAL CHURCH VALLEY ROAD(BUSINESS COMMUNITY FELLOWSHIP)MADE US(ME)A DIFFERENT CITY COUNCIL THAT IS A COUNCIL THAT IS REALISTIC ALIVE AND WELL AND MEANS BUSINESS IN A POSITIVE WAY. WE ARE SO USED TO POOR SERVICE; POOR RELATIONSHIP; POOR COUNCIL SELF IMAGE THAT MARUBE CAME THROUGH AS A RAY OF SUNCSHINE AND HOPE AND EXPECTATION THAT THERE IS REALITY SELF AWARENESS AND POSITIVITY TO WHO THE CITY COUNCIL SEE THEMSELVES AS BEING. KUDOS NCC YOU'LL HAVE MY SUPPORT FORTHWITH AND PLEASE DO A GREAT DEAL MORE WITH THE MARUBES YOU HAVE WITHIN
Reply to this
Thanks for the support and renewed hope fort the City Council of Nairobi. The Council has made engagement and interaction with members of the public its number one priority. Indeed we have many other officers who represent the ideals of the Council. Thank you for your support.
Reply to this
This is a great idea! any chance of having a set of building bylaws for sale to enable a developer to know what is expected to do and not to do.Sometime I am held at the mercy of Council employees who are interested with their stomach!
Empowering its citizens is an effective way to reduce and fight corruption.
Reply to this
Thanks for your concern. All the information on building by laws is available free of charge at the development control section, city hall annex, 2nd floor. Moreover, the council will have its open day on 7th and 8th May 2010 at kencom bustop. All the by laws will be available free of charge. You are welcome.
Reply to this
We have changed the dates for the Council open day from 7th and 8th May to 21st and 22nd May 2010, at the Kencom bus stop. You are all welcome to come and know your council. The theme of the open day is " enhancing business opportunity and harmony in the city"
Reply to this
Thank you Mr. Kisia for this blog. It is an idea that was long overdue.
My query /concern stems from tenancy in city council of nairobi houses. I am one such tenant but I am concerned with the total disregard for good neighbourliness and the city by-laws on general nuisance.
how is it that some residents can carry out activities that are a health and security risk to others in the neighbourhood. this includes playing very loud music and drug abuse without a second thought of others.
is there no course of redress for tenants who faithfully pay their rent but cannot even enjoy their homes because they are constantly bombarded with noise and other nuisance?
can the estate officers for the various council estates be stationed at the closest council offices for ease of service provision to residents of council estates e.g. the mariakani estate officer.
thank you,
concerned resident
Reply to this
All matters in the residence and other private homes are handled by the police. However, send details on the nature of the nuisance to enable me establish whether the council can intervene. Kindly send the details to info@nairobicity.go.ke.
Reply to this
I think the council officers are now becoming a nuisance and harrasing a number of us Nairobians.
Correct me if am wrong,when taking my laundry for dry cleaning why should I be harrased for being a hawker?
Today,am towed when am in my car for flush parking n not straight then call it 'obstruction'?
I'll tell you want Mr.Town Clerk,you have an incompetent,irritating bunsh of hooligans in your employ!!!
My solution,sack the entire lot,hire form 4 leavers;my assumption being they are literate.Train them on customer service,they are not doing us any favours;its their job.
This had better be soon because one of these fine days,if I am arrested for hawking as I take my clothes to a dry cleaner,God help me,I will not have the good sense to restrain myself.
And of course,pay them well.Their JD doesnt entail being irritants,and looking for all means possible to put food on their table!!!
It's disgusting!!
Reply to this
Sorry for your predicament. Council staff are required to observe decorum when handling members of staff. The Council has already initiated several reforms to enhance service delivery. Soon, harassment of members of the public will be a thing of the past. However, note that flush parking has been banned in some streets. Kindly furnish with me with details to enable me provide an appropriate response. At the moment, there is a Human resource consultancy that is ongoing, with view to realign our staff with the aspirations of the city residents.
Reply to this
The Council employees are o required to arrest anyone carrying his shopping or laundry. Similarly, all b laws on parking ought to be respected by city residents. However, I encourage you to register any complaints immediately they occur to our customer care numbers: 0725624489, 0735825383 or 020344194.
Reply to this
why are all opeen space in nairobi sold for developments children do not have place to play ie eastleigh
Reply to this
The Council has an obligation to provide and protect recreation facilities for the community. Kindly provide with specific details to enable me provide an appropriate response.
Reply to this
thank you for you reply i was ask about eastleigh social hall ground.
Reply to this
Thanks for the clarification.
Reply to this
I am currently in Europe and wondering when shall we have the trains doing the public transport? It high time you look for willing investors in underground train network if you want to be a world class city.This will solve the frequent traffic jams. For now plan to connect every estate with railway and let it operate 24hours. For a start build trains that will move from east end to west end of nairobi and another one on north to south.Imagine if we had a public train moving from Daystar university to Kikuyu town and another from Rua to Ngong every 10 minutes. Your stress as city managers will be minimized, no makanga, no jams. Think about it and let us build something that would outlive us, not short time solutions like the by passes.
Reply to this
Thanks a lot for your suggestions on use of trains as a means of public transport. The suggestion and idea a forms part our city master plan, that we are developing. This will surely solve the problem on traffic jams.
Reply to this
how many houses as the council builded for low income.
Reply to this
We havent built any houses at the moment. However, we are awaiting cabinet approval to carry out an urban regeneration of eastlands. The benefits will be immense to the low income earners in the city.
Reply to this
it is adiscipline we need to adhere devotedily inorder to obtain good results in interuction and offer of our services expectingly to and from one another.steps to make this known to every driver,and expected persons of different service offer and receiver is expected that when by law acts its judement ,compromise and miunderstanding may not arise.Kenyans are not heard to obey especially when change is due birth
Reply to this
Thanks for your appreciation of the presence of the blog site.
Reply to this
Philip, kudos for this blog, i just found it and i'm impressed on this noble avenue that you have taken up.
I know Nairobi is in your capable hands and as a kenyan working in the larger east african region, Nairobi is not worse off but it can do better. Stay the course,be firm and decisive. I know you also have a monumentous task in taming the councillors who live by the day,but strategic moves for the betterment of the city will stand the test of time and petty politics.
Do you any by laws on advertising in city, that you can post on this blog?That's covering billboards,suburban signs. I'm actually amazed how the city has been totally populated by billboards yet there is very little to show environmental support or CSR activities from these companies.
all the best.
Reply to this
Thanks for your support towards this initiative. I have the support of all members of the Council in service delivery to the city residents. We shall post the information and other by laws for your consumption.
Reply to this
Thanks you.
Reply to this
i think this is a really viable iDea. more reseidentsshould be informed f the same. could we have a mechanism for reporting faults and improvementsas well as posting complaints?
Reply to this
Thanks for your comments. We have the following customer care contacts: 0725 624489 0735 825383 020 344 194.
Reply to this
WHY DO YOUR PEOPLE CHECK LICENSE EVERY MONTH 12 TIMES IN A YEAR.
Reply to this
Enforcement is a continuous exercise. Therefore, we need to carry out inspections for the entire year to ensure compliance. However, there are plans to carry out this activity in a structured manner.
Reply to this
Great blog Idea.
Cleanliness in our estates wanting. Case in point, Otiende bus terminus and environs used to be clean but getting dirty by the hour. Kiosks have sprung up and line street all the towards st Mary's Hospital. Dirt Dirt Dirt everywhere. Can public health and Licensing do something? Surely we all love clean estates, don't we?
Great job Philip and keep it up
Nathan
Reply to this
Thanks. We shall take corrective action.
Reply to this
Its good for the NCC to have this forum for communication. It has been frustrating in the past accessing its officers.
I specifically have a solid waste managemenrt research data which I have been yearning to share with the city fathers to help them plan even better. its a research on the Nairobi residents' willingness to pay for improved solid waste management services. This information was meant to get into a demand driven approach to solid waste managenent, and thus the best consumers are the city fathers.
Kindly tell me how to reach you on this issue, especially sharing the information eg in a workshop or another forum in which we have the relevant professionals being present.
Dr Afullo Augustine
lecturer in environmental health and management,
kenyatta University.
tel: 0722690956 / 0738410345.
Reply to this
The office of the Director of environment is open for engagement. Kindly get in touch to enable us gain from your insight on solid waste management.
Reply to this
Kindly, is it possible for the director of environment to have access to the research data? From universities, we think we can generate data to help in city improvement. How can you ensure various stakeholders are able to make a contribution as much as they wish to? With a new constitution, we want to see Nairobi becoming a green city in the sun , once more. But garbage cannot allow that. Kindly let me (and many others are willing) have access to your technical meetings and conferences / symposium where the research data can be shared for improvement of the city.
Dr Afullo Augustine
KU
Reply to this
Thanks for the challenge. The council has organised a monthly stakeholders' forum. I shall send you and other scholars an invite to use the occasion as a platform to engage us.
Reply to this
Thanks philip. i look forward to the forum
afullo.
Reply to this
I have already sent you the invite. Hope to see you in our subsequent meetings.
Reply to this
For Mr Town clerk,
THE NAIROBI HOUSEHOLDS’ WILLINGNESS TO PAY FOR IMPROVED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT SERVICE by DR AFULLO, O Augustine,
Kenyatta University, http://www.ku.ac.ke
Department of Public Health,
P.O. BOX 43844-00100, Nairobi, Kenya.
TEL: (254) 020 810901-19, Fax: (254) 020 811575 ext 3307
afullochilo@yahoo.com.sg ; and
ODHIAMBO, Frank, Water, Engineering and Development Centre, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, UK;
ABSTRACT
This research aims at determining what the Nairobi households are willing to pay for an improved solid waste management (SWM) service. The objectives are: (i) To assess the kind of SWM services that Nairobi households desire; (ii) To determine the improved SWM services that Nairobi residents are willing to pay for; and (iii) To evaluate the Nairobi households’ WTP for the improved SWM services.
12 key informant interviews, 6 Focus group discussions, transect walk, and pre-tested household (HH) questionnaires were administered. 430 questionnaires were administered to HHs in proportionate to estate population among the high income, medium to high income, medium income and, low-income estates, each referring to different social status. All the 8 Nairobi divisions were represented, in a ratio proportionate to HH numbers as follows: (i) 0% of sampled HHs from high income estates; (ii) 90 (20.9 %) of sampled HHs from middle-high income estates of Langata and Riruta; (iii) 100 (23.2%) of sampled HHs from lower middle income estates of Makongeni and Kayole; (iv) 100 (23.2%) of sampled HHs from low income estates of Eastley, Kawangware and Komarock; and (v) 140 (32.6%) of sampled HHs from slum estates of Kibera, Korokocho, and Mathare.
78.4% of Nairobi HHs are not satisfied with the current state of SWM. There is high demand for improved SWM service at the household level in Nairobi. 30% get no service and would like to get it. Of those already with a collection service, 50% would like to have a higher level of service. Nairobi households show a very high effective demand for improved household waste collection. This effective demand is exhibited by the amounts they are willing and able to pay, that is, Kshs 107.4 (US$ 1.53) for garbage collection per month. Nairobi households show a very high effective demand for waste bins. This effective demand is exhibited by the mean amounts they are willing and able to pay, Kshs 66.59 (US$ 0.95) for purchasing one waste bin. 72.3% of Nairobi households are willing to purchase waste bins. It was recommended that a process to allow the willing and able households to pay the amounts they have feel feasible for their desired level of solid waste collection service be facilitated Similarly, waste bins of the appropriate design options (size, shape, durability and material) should be designed with prices that match the amount households in various socio-economic status are willing and able to pay. This will help match the demand with supply of bins, rendering their use more po
Reply to this
I would like to join the professional team of the NCC to help in designing systems for the NCC. This purely on voluntary basis. I teach this subject to my BSc and MSc students daily, but chance to put this in practice has been missing.
Bw T Clerk, advise.
0722690956 / 0738410345
Reply to this
Why does the city council allow their tenants to run businesses from their houses even though these are residential areas? is ther not a rule on where one can carry out business? and what type? more so businesses that interfere with the freedom of other tenants?
please "fafanua". I know a few people who are inconvenienced by such a situation but they are unwilling to report the matter.
Reply to this
Kindly give us details to enable us take corrective action. As a matter of fact, no business is allowed to take place in a residential house without a change of user.
Reply to this
why is Gido Kibukosya being allowed to run a recording studio in mariakani estate and disturbing the neighbourhood? the noise started at around 9.30pm and up to now they are playing loud music and we cant sleep. and when we complain, they are insulting?
Reply to this
Kindly send details of the offending house number to info@nairobicity.go.ke
Reply to this
Due to the bad roads my car got a severe bent rims and the tyres burst. Can I sue the NCC for the damage? Also at Garage road industrial area some cars dont pay the NCC parking fees ! Can you stop this corruption from the roots that is the yellow man !
Reply to this
Thanks for your tip on non payment of parking charges. The Council is striving to ensure that all roads in the city are in a motorable state. However, we need timely payment of fees and licences to to enable us achieve this state.
Reply to this
PLEASE IWOULD APREACIATE TO GET ASSISTANCE FROM THE GUYS CONCERNED,IHAVE TRIED GETTING ASSISTANCE ON THE ABOVE MATTER WITH NO SUCESS,DESPITE MAKING SEVERAL TRIPS TO YOUR OFFICES.
FROM.OSCAR MASHANGA.
RADIO UMOJA 101.5FM NAIROBI.
CONTACTS.020 800 54 80.
DATE.24th OF MAY 2010.
TO.THE NAIROBI CITY COUNCIL.
AGENDA.REQUEST FOR ABRIEF RADIO INTERVIEW.
Hi Sir. My names are Oscar Mashanga Radio Presenter Radio Umoja
101.5fm Nairobi. Am working on a series of Educative Radio Features on business investment, I would appreciate if I could interview somebody from your office on the essential licenses for doing business in the city-(the licenses under the Nairobi city council)
The reason am requesting for the interview I would appreciate to have expert opinion on each step and institution involved, so as to get the professional input on each topic.
1. Single business permit.
2. Fire clearance certificate.
3. Food hygiene certificate.
4. Medical examination certificate.
5. Small signage’s/wall/vehicle branding.
NB-On each license I would appreciate to know the procedure, rules and regulation and the payments involved, remember am compiling an educative Radio features targeting those intending to start their business with information on all legal issues involve step by step.
Below are Topics covered in the series with expert opinions.
1. How to register a company and legal issues involved.
-Institution- the state law office-sheria house.
2. How to register trade marks/logos and business intellectual property issues.
-Institution-The Kenya Industrial property institute.
- (My contact Person the Managing Director KIPI)
3. Insurance for business development.
-Institution –CIC insurance.
My contact Person the Managing Director CIC insurance.
4. Websites issues.
-institution slick marketing limited.
My contact Person the Business development Manager.
5. Promotional and Public Relations materials.
-Institution slick marketing.
My contact Person the Business development Manager.
fliers, brochures, banners (in house and street), booklets, magazines, folders, company profiles, calendars, job ids, mouse pads, key rings, rulers, sticky pad holders, pens, proposals, invitation cards, stickers, labels, and packaging.
Animated demo presentations
PowerPoint presentations and flash animated presentations.
6. How you could start marketing your new business.
-Institution--capacity development Africa-
My contact Person the Managing Director-Capacity Development Africa LTD.
7. Business management issues and abit of marketing.
Institution-Capacity Development Africa Limited.
My contact Person the Managing Director-capacity Development Africa LTD
8. Business plan and drafting of business proposals.
Institution-Emerging Africa Capital Limited.
My contact Person the Managing Director Emerging Africa Capital Limited.
Kindly confirm if you might be interested in the interview and when could I come for the intervie
Reply to this
Our offices are always open. We shall be glad to participate in your educative programme.
Reply to this
The recent heavy rains coupled with a Nairobi Water Company repairs have left Lumumba drive off Kamiti road full of craters and trenches. The residents are already feeling the effect a bad road can have as they go on with their daily activities. This road is damaging our cars already and our pleas to the concerned authorities go unresponded to. I would a confirmation from Nairobi Town Clerk Mr. Kisia if this road is not under the City Council's jurisdiction to justify why we have to live in misery.
Regards,
Felix Otiato
Lumumba drive resident
Nairobi
Reply to this
Thanks for your concern. I have forwarded the matter to the City Engineer for action.
Reply to this
am a resident of Jamhuri Estate and some 3-5 months ago some contractor dug some trenches i think in readiness of the long rains to clear the drainage (good idea) but now the road (which was already bad is worse and the trenches are even bigger and which makes driving a challenge. the issue we kenyans have is giving people who are not qualified to do work and the result is always work not done and payment received. we seriously need to check who gets work and their integrity and standard of work. you need to get rid of all those useless contractors and suppliers so that nairobi can be what we are want to return it to the green city in the sun. Kisia you can do it and we are behind you. secondly the area is a dog city (i have never seen so many dogs and makes it difficult when one wants to job in the morning from 6 am they are harmful and need your assistance to get rid of them.
thank you
Reply to this
Thanks for your concern on the state of workmanship on the road and presence of stray dogs in Jamhuri estate. We shall take appropriate action.
Reply to this
The trenches were dug by the staff of Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company while undertaking repairs for burst pipes. Measures are being put in place to reinstate the section.
Reply to this
Dear Mr. Kisia,
REF: Plan Reg. No. EU564 - Spring Valley Crescent, off Spring Valley Road, Nairobi
With respect and gratitude we have been following your responsiveness to wanainchi’s concerns on your blog. We trust that CCN is equally motivated to follow up.
One area that has not yet been addressed on the blog is the adherence of planning departments and land use authorities to laid-down zoning requirements for the different parts of the city. Given the increasing congestion by vehicles and the need to restructure traffic flow (we noticed suggestions on the blog that might be useful for the city planners), residents and their representatives in residents’ associations are concerned that providing authority for constructions beyond (or can we say contrary to?) the zoning provisions will only exacerbate the current problems. And not only for traffic. In most of the areas designated for a lower density development, there are no proper sewage systems, land is often very steep leading to serious erosion when being over-developed and Nairobi’s air quality seriously suffers if the “green belts” are built up as well.
In this regard, the development approval ref. EU564, under construction, is a COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT IN A CLEARLY RESIDENTIAL ZONE, and in many ways subject to the development constraints we refer to above. We hereby seek the authoritative opinion of CCN in regard to validity of this particular development permission grant.
I write on behalf of the concerned residents on Spring Valley Residents Association (SVaRA).
Reply to this
Thanks a lot to your timely concern. Let me establish the facts of the matter at hand before appropriate action can be taken.
Reply to this
Else you forget, Mr. Kisia am anticipating your response to Pln. Waweru's issues. Spring Valley is indeed just a case of many upcoming Development floating Zoning & Development Guidelines. It is 3 days and counting.
Reply to this
Thanks for the reminder. I shall keep you posted.
Reply to this
The City Council of Nairobi should manage waste disposal mechanisms by acquiring more trucks and may-be hiring out disposal services to private contractors. I can connect them to cheap waste disposal truck suppliers from London. My e-mail is gmwirichia@yahoo.co.uk
Reply to this
Thanks for your help. However, the council has developed an integrated solid waste management policy that is awaiting cabinet approval before we can commence.
Reply to this
Hi,
My name is Joshua,a resident of South B.I have a big problem with crews who dig up the roads for pipe laying or cabling.They normally re-seal the roads in such a crude way that the edges of the trench remain exposed.With every car that passes goes the trench,it (trench) continues getting eroded and sharp edged in the process.Case point,the road from South B shopping centre to the back entrance of Uchumi Capital Centre,and the adjacent one connecting to Kapiti road,have terrible trenches.My questions are:
1)Who is responsible for resealing of such roads after the works,is it the council or the contractors.
2)Is there a standard for resealing the roads because most of the resealingit is appaling
3)For the South B roads mentioned above,what action do you plan to take?
4)Are there future plans to ensure that any road works are complied with strictly in reference to the above issue
I am sure you would agree with me these sites are an eyesore and do a lot of damage to the road in the longrun.
Thank you again for having such an avenue where we can engage with you.
Regards,
Joshua
Reply to this
Thanks Joshua. Nobody has a right to destroy the roads in the city. The Council will take appropriate measures to reign in the offenders. Thank you.
Reply to this
Dear Mr.Kisia.I appreciate the difference and results-oriented style of management you bring to the Council,and which you proved in your time at the KICC.I reside at Ongata Rongai but work in Langata area off Langata South road.My concern is with regard to the Langata Road-Magadi Road junction, commonly known as the "Bomas" junction.To begin with,the bushes behind the bus stage towards Ongata Rongai are for all intents and purposes a smelly, illegal public toilet, mostly used by touts.The smell from there is very offensive to commuters at the stage.My request is you rally an initiative between TOTAL SECURITY,KK guards(who park near there),Kenya Wildlife Service(since this is right at the edge of the park and probably the Kenya Alliance of Resident Associations to clear the bush behind the stage, probably fence if off and plant flowers;Strictly enforce by-laws against use of the bush as a toilet by arresting offenders;Invite well wishers like the "IKO-Toilets" to put up a convenient public toilet in the area(they put up one at the Langata Cemetery), and also have the council with partners who can be identified, to put up a spacious bus stage on the Brook house school side,off Magadi road, to avoid a chaotic and unstable situation where public transport vehicles from Magadi road drop off passengers off Langata road yet there is no space for them.Thanks you.
Reply to this
Thanks for you comments regarding the state of the environment at various locations. We shall take up appropriate measures.
Reply to this
Hi,
I am a resident of Sports Road (westlands) and this road has not been done for the past 20 years. It is no longer even possible to make do with a repair job as the potholes are too big. Isn't there something that can be done. If necessary some of the residents may also agree to fund part of the costs..
If this road was done the traffic would ease considerably as well.
Reply to this
I have forwarded your concern to the city engineer. Thank you for your initiative to support the Council in repairing the roads.
Reply to this
Development in that area means that the road network needs to be expanded. Therefore, the roads have been included in the roads capital programme, and a request forwarded to the Ministry of Local Government to assist in funding. In the meantime, we shall undertake temporary repairs.
Reply to this
Hi,
Can you please inform the residents of westlands /parklands where the council collects recyclable materials eg. plastic/ paper. Most residents use private garbage collectors and would appreciate if there were allocated sites (maybe the council schools) from where the recyclable materials could be collected once/twice every week.
Reply to this
I have informed the environment department to take up you suggestion. Thank you for the good idea.
Reply to this
I need to access the by laws that relate to fire and gas cylinders regulations in relation to building. The one that says gas cylinders should be placed outside buildings as in the case of supermarkets
Reply to this
Kindly access the council website on www.nairobicity.go.ke and read the by laws on fire brigade.
Reply to this
Hi!
Is it possible for the NCC to write a letter to it's tenants outlining the rules of tenancy and penalties of brreaking these rules in NCC estates. many of us are suffering due to the impunity in residences as many belive that rules are there to be broken and therefore enforcement of rules is a by-the-way.
This is mostly on noise/ disturbance regulations, keeping of animals and disposal of trash and sewage. the state of many NCC estates is deteroriating due to lack of enforcement of tenancy rules.
Thanks
Reply to this
The tenants are given living conditions before taking up tenancy. Other council by laws are available on the blog and the Council website. However, I shall ask the director of social services to send all tenants a reminder of the rules they are supposed to obey.
Reply to this
The Council provides all its tenants with tenancy rules and regulations which are to be abided by. Estate officers are located in various estate offices to ensure the tenancy agreement is adhered to. All estate tenants are requested to familiarise themselves with the rules in their possession.
Reply to this
I would like to correct you on this. not all NCC estates have estate officers located there. for some, the officers are very far so issues they would easily deal with are never reported...
Reply to this
We have a customer care desk at City Hall , Mezanine floor. We can also be reached on 0725624489, 0735825383, 020344194. Residents are encouraged to report any urgent complaints.
Reply to this
It's really a novel endeavor that the local people can take to make the city green one. The City Council of Nairobi should immediately look after the waste disposal mechanisms by servicing lot of trucks for the cleanliness of Nairobi
Reply to this
Thanks for your encouragement and suggestions.
Reply to this
I have gone through all the by Laws, does this mean that smoking is not prohibited in Nairobi city. I am asking since many city council askaris arrest smokers except the wazungus
Reply to this
It is important to note there are other acts of the constitution that govern the residents of the city apart from our by laws. In this case the public health act mandates our officers to enforce the tobacco control act within their jurisdiction.
Reply to this
Mr Kisia,
nairobi pavements. Can we have all the pavements in the shopping centres and streets be accessible to people living with disabilities. It is disgusting to see many pavements with stairs case or un-even. A disabled persons should be able to maneuver all the streets with ease and enter into any shop with a wheelchair without needing any assistance. over to you. same with pedestrians paths. We can do it Mr Kisia. Check in taita road, Accra road, etc....
Reply to this
Thanks for pointing this out. I have forwarded the suggestion to the City Engineer for consideration.
Reply to this
Mr. Kisia,
I understand that everyone pays a "security fee" to unscrupulous people within the CBD. Since this is becoming a norm it would make sense that this should actually be paid by the council and not individuals as it is the council's responsibility to ensure safety within the city.
Reply to this
This is a security matter, best addressed by the police force and other security organs.
Reply to this
I also heard about this recently, and several drivers who frequently visit CBD mentioned these are Mungiki who openly operate alongside City Council and collect their own fees.
Reply to this
Thanks for the info.
Reply to this
Dear Mr. Kisia,
RE: Plot No. 209/8363/98
As the saying goes - Patience pays.
I was called by Mr. Ochanda at around 11.30a.m. today, for the directions to the College as he had been sent by the Director City Planning, to visit the College and confirm about our complaint and also take the appropriate action.
I gave him and also told him that I am leaving the office immediately to join him and confirm the outcome.
I reached and found Mr. Ochanda with the Proprietor of the College, Mr. Parma, his wife and their staff.
He confirmed to me that, yes they did acquire the Change of User on 6/07/2010 but failed to follow the required procedure in full. He only put in the dailies and failed to put on site.
He also confirmed that Mr. Parmar should have acquired an approval for the change of plans which he did not have.
He then gave them a notice to close the business within 7 days failure to which they will take appropriate action.
Mr. Kisia, as we were still talking, the famous Mr. Hillary Soi, from Development Control walked in. Our Askari advised me immediately that he is the one who has just walked in.
I confronted him to find out why he is threatening our Askari that he will pull down our main gate. I requested for the documents from his office requesting for this action. He shouted back at me and told me he has the authority to pull down the gate if he so desires. At that point the wife to the Proprietor, started shouting at me chasing me out of her compound with lots of abuse.
Mr. Ochanda, requested me to allow him handle the issue and I wait outside for him to brief me. I obliged.
In the meantime, I called the Community Police who were waiting for this gentleman to return and they came.
They questioned Hillary Soi to first identify himself and also advise why he is visiting the court. Ofcourse Hillary has a staff card from NCC. But on the reasons he is there, he changed the story - saying that he came to assist the Proprietor to put up Advertising Boards (I guess for the same college). He assured us that he has nothing to do with our gate or even the court.
Less than an hour later after all the above, Mr. Ochanda called me to say that the Director has received the feed back on the College and has ordered for the cancellation of the Change of User with immediate effect.
I want to thank you dearly for this blog, I also wish to thank Mr. Marube, your Chief Public Relations Officer and ofcourse the Director of City Planning for this prompt action.
I have always believed in following the required procedures. The impression I had gotten from many when I started is that City Council will do nothing - I wish to advise them to try you in the right procedure and prove your worth.
Thank you Sir and keep up the professional services you are rendering to us.
Your faithfully,
Agatha W.K.Mutua (Mrs.)
0722-795939
Off-Mfulu Court Residents
Reply to this
I am glad you we able to be of service to you. The Council strives to provide first class service to the city residents.
Reply to this
REF: TRENCH ALONG LUSAKA ROAD(AFRI HOUSE) PLOT NO.LRNO.209/5017/13
Attn: Mr. Kisia,
please intervene on the above matter as the trench was dug there for more than one year ago by H-young & co. who were constructing the road and they opened the sewer which is stinking allover proving to be a health hazard for all of us. We have no access to the building and as a result we have lost alot of customers. We wrote aletter of complain to Nairobi city council and H-Young Company but they never replied.
We are therefore kindly requesting you to intervene.
Hoping for your Positive response
REgards
John Gathu
Managing Director
Reply to this
Thanks for the info. We shall take appropriate measures.
Reply to this
we are writing to complain over the trench dug along our premises it has been there for almost a year the sewer on trench is open and is stinking allover proving to be a health hazard
we have no access to the building and we are losing our customers
we are requesting you to intervene and solve this issue
we had addressed this issue to THE CHIEF ENGINEER CNN letter dated 05th dec 2009
and also to THE CHIEF ENGINEER HYOUNG CO
but no response
we are located Lusaka road opposite ASL NEXT TO MARINA MACHINERIES (AFRI HOUSE)
thanks in advance
John N Gathu
Reply to this
Thanks for the alert. We shall take appropriate action
Reply to this
Dear Mr. Kisia,
Thanks for your good job. I am a resident of South C Estate. while I appreciate efforts by CCN in rehabilitating roads in the area, there is one particular one that seems to be completely forgotten. This road passes between Five Star Phases 1 & 2 (it passes infront of Five Star Phase 1 gate). Besides serving residents in Bandari, Elegant, Ash-Gate Estates, the road is used by the only hospital in the area (Olive Tree Hospital). It also leads to other social amenities like a Catholic church and a Mosque. This road is in a deplorable condition. Those without cars have to hire taxis at exorbitant costs since there are no matatus and walking on this road is a nightmare. Those driving have to service their cars regularly, thanks to the deplorable condition of the road. The road has also become a security threat with carjackings (personally I have been a victim) and mugging being common occurrence. Efforts by the security agents to make regular patrols in the area are frustrated by the rough terrain. Residents are suffering since very few school buses venture into the area. The situation becomes particulary unbearable when it rains with motorists and pedestrians suffering enormously as the road became impassable.
Please come to our rescue.
Reply to this
I have forwarded your complaint to the city engineer to establish what can be done to make the road motorable.
Reply to this
Thank you Mr. Kisia. We will await a positive response from the CCN. We have suffered enormously due to that road. Any assistance will be welcome and greatly appreciated.
John Gichuru, Resident
Tel: 3636341
Reply to this
After the seven days notice issued to Rashban College expired, your Development Control personnel and others came to the said College to confirm that they have acted as per the notice issued last Wednesday. I understand it was received by your Legal Department yesterday. The question is - how can a business run with illegal documents - as it is the City Planning has confirmed that the reference of the Change of User does not exist in their records
(no minutes, no records). I thought City Council have laws that enable them to enforce their orders in such situations to avoid illegal structures?
Reply to this
We are taking appropriate measures to resolve your concern.
Reply to this