The Environment and Land Court, Milimani has given Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja five days to announce the reopening date for Central Park.
Milimani Court Justice Omollo ruled that while Nairobi County serves as the custodian of the park, the public remains its rightful owner.
The court ruling comes after a lobby group moved to court to compel the Nairobi County Government to reopen Uhuru Park, arguing that the continued closure of the recreational facility infringes on the rights of city residents.
In its petition, the Green Belt Movement stated that the scarcity of private, public, and green spaces in Nairobi has forced residents to resort to unsafe spots, including road intersections, for relaxation.
Green Belt Movement Petition Against Nairobi County Govt
The lobby further argued that the lack of accessible green spaces is degrading to human dignity, accusing the county government of neglecting its duty to provide well-maintained and safe green spaces across the county.
Also Read: Uhuru Park to Be Leased
According to the County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Green Nairobi, Maureen Njeri, the park was expected to be completed by December 2024 and, like Uhuru Park, will be handed over to the Nairobi City County upon completion.
The court’s directive comes after the Nairobi City County Cabinet approved leasing and renting of designated spaces within the Uhuru and Central Parks to attract private investment and improve facilities for park users.
Sakaja on Leasing Central Park and Uhuru Park
Sakaja stated that the initiative aims to generate sustainable income streams to support park maintenance and development while enhancing public amenities by introducing recreational facilities, eateries, and event spaces.
He confirmed that the new measures are part of a broader plan to balance environmental preservation with public access.
Furthermore, he emphasized that the initiative seeks to promote sustainable revenue generation for the city while enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
Also Read: Sakaja Gives Update on Reopening of Uhuru Park Amid Pressure
“The new resolutions include leasing and renting designated spaces within the parks to attract private investment and improve facilities for park users,” Sakaja said
“These measures are part of a phased implementation plan aligned with legal, environmental, and urban development goals.”
Sakaja stated that the initiative will help establish sustainable income streams to fund park maintenance and development.
He added that it aims to enhance public amenities by introducing recreational facilities, eateries, and event spaces for public enjoyment.
The county boss also emphasized the importance of encouraging private-sector investment to upgrade park infrastructure while implementing leasing frameworks that prioritize ecological conservation.
“This initiative allows others to invest in the facility, earn a living, and, at the same time, generate revenue for the county, ensuring visitors enjoy better services,” Sakaja said.
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