Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has given property owners a final chance to regularise buildings constructed without county approval, warning that those who fail to comply will face demolition.
Speaking during the United Winner DT Sacco’s 25th anniversary celebrations, Sakaja said the county has opened a final window to allow landlords to legalise undocumented or unauthorised structures before enforcement begins.
“If you know you have an illegal building, you have a window to regularise it. When that window closes, that is it—the law will take its course,” he warned.
The governor clarified that the initiative is not about revenue collection but about enforcing proper planning and safety standards. “It is our duty to ensure that development happens in an orderly manner, with public utilities, emergency access, and structural integrity. That is why we are giving this window—after that, we will take action,” he said.
Sakaja noted that the exercise will help formalise some structures that were built without permits but meet safety and planning guidelines. However, those that fail to comply will be demolished once the grace period expires.
“The county government wants to ensure that urban development is streamlined,” he said, adding that Nairobi’s growth must follow approved plans to safeguard residents.
Areas such as Ruai, Kasarani, Mwiki, Roysambu, and Embakasi have been marked as hotspots for illegal developments and land disputes. The crackdown is part of a wider plan to restore order in the city’s fast-growing estates and ensure residents live in safe, well-planned environments.
At the same event, Sakaja announced that Embakasi East and Embakasi West are among the biggest beneficiaries of the ongoing Sh2.1 billion road upgrade project, being implemented by the county in partnership with the national government.
“These are not plans on paper; they are projects residents can see taking shape,” he said. “Embakasi East and West alone have received Sh867 million out of the Sh2.1 billion set aside for city roads.”
Sakaja added that the road projects will boost mobility, create jobs for youth, and spur economic activity in Nairobi’s expanding suburbs.
