Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has expressed concern about the prolonged closure of Uhuru Park, an iconic landmark in Nairobi.
The park has been inaccessible since September 2021 when it underwent renovation and was revitalized by the Kenya Defence Forces.
In a letter directed to the Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, Senator Sifuna highlighted complaints he received regarding the extended closure of the park.
Sifuna noted that although the park was slated to reopen in December 2023, it remains closed to the public, causing inconvenience to Nairobi residents and visitors.
He referenced a meeting held on October 13, 2023, involving Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, himself, and Kenya Defence Forces personnel overseeing the refurbishment, where it was confirmed that all renovation works had been completed.
A similar meeting between Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru and Governor Sakaja took place in July 2023 to discuss the park’s progress.
Sifuna urged CS Duale to clarify whether ongoing works are still being carried out at Uhuru Park and whether the facility has been officially handed over to the county government.
Furthermore, the senator requested clarity on when Nairobians can expect the park to reopen for public use.
Both Uhuru and Central parks have undergone extensive renovation under the KDF through Nairobi Metropolitan Services since September 2021 to bring them up to international park standards.
The upgraded green spaces are expected to play a significant role in environmental pollution management, socio-economic development, and citizen well-being.
These parks, long neglected, are receiving modern facilities and amenities, including manicured lawns, enhanced walkways, and recreational areas.
The transformation includes an outdoor Amphitheatre, events garden, children’s play area, and a revamped man-made lake featuring a waterfront and Swahili restaurant.
Despite these renovations, the parks have not yet reopened to the public, with the exception of a brief opening during the Nairobi festival in December last year.
Historically, Uhuru Park has been a focal point for political rallies, particularly during election periods, and holds cultural significance as a gathering place for citizens and visitors alike.
