McCauley Wycliff
Member
The Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) has initiated plans to redevelop ten city estates as part of the affordable housing programme.
An Expression of Interest (EOI) notice published by NMS sought out development partners including pension funds and schemes, real estates developers and players in the banking industry to facilitate the project in conjunction with the Nairobi County Government.
The estates eyed for redevelopment include Bahati, Maringo, Jericho, Lumumba, Bondeni, Ziwani, Embakasi, California, Kariobangi North, and Woodley.
The first phase of the project, which is currently ongoing, focused on the redevelopment of seven city estates including Uhuru Estate, New Ngara, Old Ngara, Ngong Road Phases I and II, Suna Road, Pangani and Jeevanjee.
160 affordable housing units are slated to be unveiled in Pangani and Jevanjee in February 2021.
NMS Deputy Director General Kang’ethe Thuku noted that the phased approach was meant to ensure that city estates were revitalized, while protecting the livelihoods of residents.
To be shortlisted for involvement in the second phase, firms will have to demonstrate technical and financial capabilities in line with requirements contained in the Request for proposal (RFP) document.
The first phase of the project was spearheaded by Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, who has since been impeached.
The Governor signed a deed of transfer handing over key functions to the National Government, which established NMS.
Residents of Pangani and Jevanjee were compensated by Sonko’s administration to pave way for construction of the affordable housing units.
Relocated tenants were to be given first priority in occupying the new houses by signing up for a 20 year affordable payment plan