NAIROBI, Kenya – Nairobi County has admitted that several high-rise buildings within the city have been constructed in violation of development regulations, underscoring long-standing concerns over unchecked urban expansion.
In court documents filed in response to a lawsuit by the Parklands Residents Association, Patrick Analo Akivaga, the county’s Chief Officer for Urban Development and Planning, revealed that numerous developments have flouted planning permissions, prompting the county to issue “innumerable” enforcement notices and stop orders.
“The county has actively pursued compliance and ensured that developers undertaking construction contrary to the law are prosecuted accordingly,” Analo stated.
According to the documents, dozens of criminal cases related to illegal developments have been filed since 2019, with many still pending in court.
The violations include building without proper approvals or failing to adhere to zoning and safety requirements.
Court Halts New Approvals in Parklands
The revelations come as the Environment and Land Court extended orders barring the Nairobi County Government from approving or processing new development applications in Parklands.
The temporary injunction, issued by Justice Anne Amollo, restricts the county’s Physical Planning and Land Use departments from considering applications for properties near Deep Sea slum, Eldama Ravine Road, and Ring Road Parklands until the case is heard and determined.
The Parklands Residents Association had filed the suit, citing unregulated construction and lack of public participation in planning decisions as key concerns.
County Says Enforcement Officers Are Active
Analo defended the county’s efforts, stating that its Enforcement Officers have been “vigilant and diligent” in inspecting construction sites and taking action against non-compliant developers.
He also outlined the role of the Urban Planning Technical Committee (UPTC), which he said enables a thorough, multi-agency vetting process for development approvals, as mandated by the Physical and Land Use Planning Act (PLUPA).
“The UPTC has consistently received nominees from various authorities annually, ensuring that the approval process remains inclusive and compliant with the law,” he said.
Background: A City in Transition
The case comes at a time when City Hall is under increased scrutiny over its urban planning policies.
Recent proposals to revise zoning laws and raise height limits in several estates have sparked pushback from residents who fear loss of privacy, overcrowding, and infrastructure strain.
In Parklands specifically, a traditionally low-density area, residents say the rapid proliferation of high-rise buildings has disrupted the neighborhood’s character and led to traffic congestion, water shortages, and sewage issues.
