Imara Daima: A Comprehensive Neighborhood Profile of Nairobi's Middle-Class Hub.
Imara Daima stands as one of Nairobi’s well-established middle-class neighborhoods, characterized by its strategic location, diverse housing options, and growing infrastructure. This report provides an in-depth examination of this residential area, analyzing its geographic positioning, property market dynamics, and recent development initiatives. While the query references Embakasi North Constituency, official records show that Imara Daima is actually situated within Embakasi South Constituency as part of the city’s administrative structure. The neighborhood benefits from excellent transportation connectivity, established social amenities, and a thriving real estate market that continues to attract both residents and investors seeking suburban living with urban convenience.
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Geographic and Administrative Overview.
Imara Daima is positioned approximately 8.2 kilometers (5.1 mi) south of Nairobi’s central business district, making it a conveniently located residential area for commuters. The neighborhood spans approximately 2 square kilometers and falls under the Embakasi South Constituency, not Embakasi North as sometimes mistakenly referenced. According to the 2019 population census, Imara Daima hosts 52,837 residents, yielding a substantial population density of 25,920 people per square kilometer.
The neighborhood is strategically situated along Mombasa Road and the Nairobi Expressway, providing excellent road connectivity to other parts of the city. This middle-class enclave is divided into eight distinct boroughs, each with its own character and development profile:
- Imara Daima Estate
- Muimara Estate
- Villa Franca Estate
- Sunrise Estate
- Imara Daima Phase 2
- AA Estate
- Mastermind
- Maziwa Area
What distinguishes Imara Daima from surrounding neighborhoods is its deliberate urban planning as a mixed residential development, creating a sharp contrast to the neighboring informal settlements of Mukuru and Pipeline1. The area features predominantly gated communities with maisonettes and bungalows typically adorned with distinctive maroon roof tiles, though apartment developments have grown increasingly common.
Houses for Sale in Imara Daima : Housing Market and Property Prices.
The real estate market in Imara Daima caters primarily to middle-class residents with a variety of housing options across different price points. Apartment developments have become the dominant housing type in recent years, reflecting the high demand for affordable yet comfortable housing options in proximity to the city center.
Current housing prices in Imara Daima demonstrate considerable variation based on property type, size, and specific location within the neighborhood:
- Three-bedroom apartments range from KSh 8 million to KSh 9.5 million, with most properties clustered in the KSh 7.5-10 million bracket.
- Two-bedroom housing options start from approximately KSh 8 million for modern units.
- Four-bedroom houses in gated communities command premium prices of around KSh 10.5 million.
- Higher-end properties in prime locations can exceed KSh 16 million.
The housing market in Imara Daima is characterized by diversity, with both apartments and standalone houses available. Most apartments feature ensuite bedrooms, spacious living areas, modern kitchens, and amenities such as balconies and dedicated laundry spaces. Properties are frequently advertised highlighting features such as 24-hour electricity, balconies, dining areas, en-suite bathrooms, hot water systems, and kitchen cabinets.
Land for sale in Imara Daima, Nairobi: Land Prices and Investment Opportunities.
Land in Imara Daima commands premium prices due to its strategic location and development potential. The neighborhood has seen substantial appreciation in land values over recent years, reflecting continued demand for residential and commercial development opportunities. Current land prices indicate:
- A 1/8 acre residential plot in Muimara with title deeds is priced at approximately KSh 24 million.
- Prime 1/8 acre plots suitable for apartment development located off Mombasa Road command prices of around KSh 50 million.
- Larger commercial parcels of approximately 0.84 acres are listed at KSh 100 million, reflecting the premium placed on land with commercial development potential.
The land market in Imara Daima is particularly attractive to developers interested in multi-dwelling units and apartments, given the existing infrastructure and proximity to major transportation corridors. Most available plots feature essential utilities already in place, including electric supply, water supply, and domestic sewage connections.
Transportation and Connectivity.
Imara Daima benefits from excellent transportation infrastructure that enhances its accessibility and appeal as a residential area. The neighborhood’s strategic connectivity includes:
Road Network.
The area is well-served by major roadways, most notably its position along Mombasa Road and the recently completed Nairobi Expressway, providing swift access to the central business district and other key areas of Nairobi.
Public Transportation.
The neighborhood is extensively covered by multiple bus routes that connect residents to various parts of Nairobi. Key bus lines serving the area include the 33MKR, 33B, 33C, 33DC, 33FED, and several others, with primary bus stops at Maziwa (just 2 minutes walking distance), Kobil (8 minutes), and Imara Daima main stop.
Railway Connectivity.
Imara Daima features a railway stop that provides connections to Nairobi’s city center, neighboring counties including Machakos, and other residential areas, offering an alternative to road transportation.
Airport Access.
The neighborhood enjoys proximity to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, situated approximately 5.6 kilometers away, making it a convenient residential choice for frequent travelers and those working in aviation-related industries.
Social Amenities and Infrastructure.
Imara Daima offers residents access to a comprehensive range of social amenities that enhance quality of life and convenience.
Healthcare Facilities.
The neighborhood is served by multiple healthcare providers, including:
- Imara Health Centre
- Huduma Family Access Medical Clinic
- Imara Daima Medical Centre
- Equity Afia Medical Centre
- Haven Hospital
- Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital
- Mukuru Health Centre
Educational Institutions.
Families residing in Imara Daima have access to various educational options:
- Diamond Junior School (primary and kindergarten)
- Jabali Christian Schools
- Riara Springs Girls High School
- St Bakhita Kindergarten & Primary School
- Gatoto Community Primary School
- Bridge International Academy
- Bright Angels High School
- Asante College of Entrepreneurship
- Premise Africa Development Institute
Shopping and Retail.
The area features modern shopping facilities that cater to residents’ daily needs:
- Nextgen Mall, located along Mombasa Road, houses Carrefour Supermarket, multiple restaurants (including Burger King, Arsham, and Domino’s Pizza), banking facilities (KCB), boutiques, electronics shops, and various service providers.
- Southfield Mall, situated along Airport North Road, offers additional shopping options for residents.
Recent and Planned Infrastructure Development.
While specific infrastructure projects directly within Imara Daima are not extensively documented in the search results, the neighborhood benefits from several significant regional development initiatives:
Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).
The completion of Phase I of the Standard Gauge Railway from Mombasa to Nairobi in May 2017, with the construction of the SGR station at Embakasi, has enhanced regional connectivity and created new economic opportunities in the broader area.
Nairobi SGR Terminus Development Plan.
The Inter-County Physical and Land Use Development Plan for Nairobi SGR Terminus Sub-Centre and Adjoining Areas (2020-2035) aims to create an integrated and sustainable world-class gateway focused around the Nairobi SGR Terminus Area. This ambitious plan seeks to develop a new urban sub-center within Nairobi, potentially benefiting neighboring areas including Imara Daima.
Nairobi County Development Initiatives.
The Nairobi City County Annual Development Plan for FY 2025/26 outlines various development priorities across the county, with potential impacts on infrastructure in Imara Daima. As the third plan developed for the implementation of the County Integrated Development Plan 2023-2027, it focuses on transforming Nairobi into a globally competitive city.
Conclusion
Imara Daima represents a well-established middle-class neighborhood within Nairobi’s urban landscape, characterized by planned development, diverse housing options, and strategic connectivity. The area’s property market shows healthy activity with residential units spanning various price points, predominantly catering to middle-income earners. Land values remain robust, reflecting continued investor confidence in the area’s development potential.
The neighborhood benefits from comprehensive transportation options, established social amenities, and its proximity to key economic zones. While specific recent infrastructure developments within Imara Daima itself are not extensively documented in the available resources, the area stands to benefit from broader regional development initiatives, particularly those centered around the SGR terminus.
For potential residents and investors, Imara Daima offers the advantages of a well-connected, amenity-rich neighborhood with established infrastructure and continued development potential, making it a compelling option within Nairobi’s competitive real estate landscape.
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