Poor planning transforms Kajiado into an urban mess

Poor Planning Transforms Kajiado into an Urban Mess
Key Points
Rapid Population Growth: Kajiado town has experienced a population surge, resulting in increased informal settlements and strain on urban infrastructure.
Urban Planning Issues: The Kajiado Municipality Integrated Development Plan 2023–2027 highlights challenges including:
Sprawl and unregulated housing
Inadequate sewer systems and water supply
Poor road infrastructure
Unchecked land subdivision
Housing Trends:
Iron sheet houses are increasingly common among students and young professionals.
Real estate is slowly diversifying, with more low-rise apartments, bungalows, and maisonettes.
Areas like Majengo still struggle with substandard housing.
Strategic Location Impacts:
The Nairobi-Arusha highway fuels development but also contributes to unplanned expansion.
Proximity to Nairobi adds both opportunities and unique challenges compared to towns like Kitengela, Ngong, and Ongata Rongai.
Education Institutions: Growth near schools such as Umma University and Naisula School increases demand for services, raising costs and complicating urban management.
Government Focus:
Urgent implementation of development controls is needed.
Plans to manage urban growth more sustainably while balancing housing needs.
Conclusion
Kajiado’s rapid urbanization, driven by population influx and strategic location, has outpaced planning, resulting in infrastructure strain and informal settlement growth. The county government must strengthen urban planning measures to achieve sustainable development.