Comprehensive Analysis of Kasarani Constituency: Area Facts, Property Prices, and Infrastructure Development.
Kasarani Constituency stands as a significant electoral and residential area in Nairobi, Kenya, with distinctive characteristics that shape its identity and development trajectory. This analysis explores the geographical, demographic, economic, and infrastructural aspects of this dynamic constituency.
Geographical and Administrative Profile.
Kasarani Constituency covers an impressive 152.60 km² (58.9 sq mi), making it the second-largest constituency in Nairobi after Lang’ata. It forms part of two administrative divisions: Kasarani Sub-county and Njiru Sub-county. The constituency is strategically positioned, bordering Ruaraka, Embakasi Central, Embakasi North, Embakasi East, and Roysambu constituencies to the west; Ruiru constituency to the north; Matungulu constituency to the east; and Mavoko constituency to the south-east.
The constituency comprises five wards with varying population densities:
- Clay City: Population 30,658, Area 4.78 km².
- Mwiki: Population 39,156, Area 18.80 km².
- Kasarani: Population 30,658, Area 8.55 km².
- Njiru: Population 64,551, Area 5.20 km².
- Ruai: Population 97,000, Area 98.00 km².
Historically, the area has undergone several administrative transformations. It was initially known as Nairobi Northeast Constituency during the 1963 elections, then as Mathare Constituency from 1966 to 1994, before finally adopting its current name after the 2007 elections. Prior to the 2013 general election, the original Kasarani was subdivided, creating Roysambu Constituency, Ruaraka Constituency, and contributing to Embakasi North Constituency.
Socioeconomic Landscape.
Kasarani presents a complex socioeconomic profile. Historically, it has been characterized as one of the poorer electoral areas in Kenya, encompassing densely populated informal settlements including Mathare, Huruma, Kariobangi, and Korogocho. Most residents are employed in either the public or private sectors, while many others engage in trading and informal (Jua kali) economic activities.
The constituency is currently represented in Parliament by Ronald Karauri, an Independent party member. Politically, the constituency has historically been an opposition stronghold, reflecting the broader political patterns of Nairobi County.
Real Estate Market: Housing Prices.
The real estate market in Kasarani displays remarkable diversity in property types and prices, reflecting the constituency’s varied socio economic composition:
House for Sale in Kasarani Kasarani – Residential Properties.
- Apartment buildings demonstrate significant investment potential, with blocks of flats priced between KSh 16,000,000 and KSh 180,000,000, depending on size and location.
- Individual family homes show price variations based on size and location:
- 5-bedroom maisonette in Garden City: KSh 13,500,000.
- 3-bedroom maisonette in Clay City Estate: KSh 27,000,000.
- 4-bedroom maisonette in Seasons Estate: KSh 110,000,000.
- 5-bedroom house in Clay City: KSh 30,000,000.
- 5-bedroom maisonette in Garden City: KSh 13,500,000.
Neighborhoods within Kasarani show distinct price patterns, with areas like Clay Works, Garden City, and Seasons Estate commanding premium prices for residential properties. The wide price range reflects the significant economic disparities within the constituency.
Land for Sale in Kasarani – Land Prices and Investment Opportunities.
Land remains a valuable commodity in Kasarani, with prices varying based on location, size, and proximity to main roads:
- Commercial plots along main roads command premium prices, with a 100×100 commercial plot fronting the Main Tarmac Road listed at KSh 45,000,000.
- Residential plots show varying values:
- Standard 30×75 plot at Kasarani Clay Works: KSh 9,500,000.
- Quarter acre behind Kasarani Primary School: KSh 15,000,000.
- Two plots (66×70 ft) in Clay Works: KSh 18,000,000.
- Standard 30×75 plot at Kasarani Clay Works: KSh 9,500,000.
Large parcels suitable for development along major highways represent significant investment opportunities, with 2-acre plots along the Eastern Bypass valued at approximately KSh 35,000,000 per acre. This price point indicates the strategic value of land along major transportation corridors.
Infrastructure Development: Sports Infrastructure.
The most significant infrastructure development in Kasarani is the ongoing renovation of the Moi International Sports Center (MISC) Kasarani, a 60,000-seater facility that represents Kenya’s premier sporting venue. This project highlights Kasarani’s importance in Kenya’s national sports infrastructure:
- Renovation began in December 2023 with completion targeted for April 2025.
- The stadium is designated to host the 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament (rescheduled to August 2025) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.
- The renovation includes comprehensive improvements to the playing surface, seating, lighting systems, and security infrastructure.
The stadium renovation faces several challenges:
- Budget constraints and questions about financial management efficiency.
- Scheduling delays, partly resulting from the postponement of the CHAN tournament.
- Temporary accessibility issues for local clubs needing alternative venues during renovation.
The vision extends beyond mere renovation, with plans to transform Kasarani into a comprehensive sports hub:
- Development of surrounding areas with improved transport links.
- Enhanced accommodation facilities.
- Fan-friendly amenities creating a “sports city” within Nairobi.
- Potential to host international concerts and cultural events.
Government Development Initiatives.
The National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) for Kasarani is actively investing in local development, with tenders issued for the 2023-2025 period covering:
- Building construction and rehabilitation projects.
- Infrastructure development.
- Supply and maintenance of public facilities and equipment.
These initiatives reflect ongoing efforts to address infrastructure gaps within the constituency.
Conclusion
Kasarani Constituency presents a study in contrast – housing both informal settlements and upscale residential developments, with property prices reflecting this diversity. The ongoing stadium renovation represents a significant infrastructure investment that could potentially transform the area’s economic profile and international visibility. Despite historical challenges, the constituency shows notable development momentum that may reshape its socioeconomic landscape in the coming years.
The blend of affordable and premium property options, strategic location, and major infrastructure investments positions Kasarani as an area of significant development potential within Nairobi County, likely to experience continued transformation in its built environment and economic character.
Related
1.What are the current house prices in Clay City?
2.How much does land cost per acre in Mwiki?
3.What recent infrastructure developments have taken place in Njiru?
4.Are there any new housing projects in Kamulu?
5.How has the real estate market in Hillview estate changed over the past five years?
Related
1.What are the current house prices in Clay City?
2.How much does land cost per acre in Mwiki?
3.What recent infrastructure developments have taken place in Njiru?
4.Are there any new housing projects in Kamulu?
5.How has the real estate market in Hillview estate changed over the past five years?