Umoja II: A Comprehensive Guide to Embakasi West's Vibrant Neighborhood.

Umoja II, a densely populated residential ward within Embakasi West Constituency, has evolved significantly since its establishment in the 1970s. This report examines the area’s key characteristics, real estate market, and recent developments to provide a comprehensive overview of this important Nairobi neighborhood.

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Geographic and Administrative Context.

Umoja estate, commonly referred to as “Umo” by locals, is located approximately 9 kilometers east of Nairobi’s central business district. The greater Umoja area is administratively divided into three distinct sections: Umoja I Ward, Umoja II Ward, and Umoja Innercore, all falling within Embakasi West Constituency in Nairobi County. This constituency, formed after the 2013 general elections from portions of the former Embakasi and Kamukunji constituencies, comprises four wards: Umoja I, Umoja II, Mowlem, and Uhuru/Kariobangi South.

Umoja II borders several other middle and low-income neighborhoods, including Buruburu, Donholm, Kariobangi, and Tena. According to the 2019 census, Umoja as a whole had a population of 140,216 residents, with Umoja II accounting for 75,960 of that total. The area has a remarkably high population density of 44,547 people per square kilometer across its 3.1 km² land area.

Historical Development.

The Nairobi City Commission originally built Umoja Estate in the 1970s to accommodate the growing urban population. The initial development plan required original occupants to pay monthly installments for the commission-constructed houses. However, due to capital constraints, the council couldn’t continue with its construction plans, leading to a policy shift where individuals were permitted to build their own houses while paying annual land rates.

This policy change significantly altered the estate’s character, transforming it from a well-planned residential area to a more densely packed neighborhood. Over decades, unauthorized construction on open spaces and road reserves, attributed partly to corruption within the city council, contributed to Umoja’s current high-density character.

Real Estate Market.

Houses for Rent in Umoja Ii Nairobi: Rental Housing Prices.

The residential rental market in Umoja II offers various housing options at relatively affordable prices compared to many other parts of Nairobi:

Single Rooms and Bedsitters: Average rents for bedsitters hover around KES 8,000 per month.
One-Bedroom Units: Rental prices range from KSh 6,500 to KSh 14,000 monthly depending on location, amenities, and building quality. A standard one-bedroom apartment typically rents for approximately KES 13,000.
Two-Bedroom Units: Monthly rents average KES 25,000, with specific listings ranging from KSh 18,000 to KSh 22,000.
Three-Bedroom Units: These larger family units command approximately KES 35,000 per month.

Many rental properties offer amenities such as secure compounds with gates, parking spaces, reliable water supply, and in some cases, children’s playgrounds. The availability of different housing types makes Umoja II accessible to various income segments.

Land for Sale in Umoja II, Embakasi Nairobi: Land and Property Sales Prices.

Land prices in Umoja II and surrounding areas show considerable variation based on location, size, and potential for development:

Residential Plots: Standard plots (40×80 feet) in Umoja Innercore are priced around KSh 7,500,000. Some smaller plots in Umoja II can be found for as low as Ksh 1,600,000.
Commercial Plots: These command premium prices, with listings around KSh 13,000,000 for plots near main roads and commercial centers.
Premium Development Land: Larger plots with strategic locations near major roads can reach KSh 35,000,000, such as a 40×100 plot on Manyanja Road near Outering Road, marketed for high-end apartment development.

The area presents investment opportunities for property developers, with existing structures often selling with redevelopment potential. A common practice is purchasing properties with existing structures that can be demolished or expanded to accommodate larger, more profitable developments.

Infrastructure Development.

Recent years have seen significant infrastructure investments in Umoja II and the broader Embakasi West Constituency:

Sewerage and Sanitation Improvements.

One of the most impactful recent developments is the Umoja Sewerage System project, part of the larger Nairobi Water and Sewerage Program. Officially launched in March 2025 during President William Ruto’s Nairobi development tour, this initiative aims to rehabilitate 260 kilometers of sewer lines across Umoja, Kayole, and Donholm. The project addresses longstanding drainage challenges and aims to improve public health and environmental conditions throughout the area.

Government Administrative Facilities.

The National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) for Embakasi West has initiated projects to improve government service delivery, including the construction of the Umoja 1 Chiefs Office with accessibility features such as ramps and stairs. This project, tendered in February 2025 (Tender No: EWNGCDF/Q017/2024-2025), represents ongoing investment in administrative infrastructure.

Transport and Connectivity.

Umoja II is well-connected to Nairobi’s transportation network. The area is served by multiple bus routes (17AKY, 35/60, 17A, 3560-2, 20) with the Umoja 2 Terminus located just 266 meters from the Umoja Phase 2 central area. Public transportation operates from approximately 6:00 AM to 9:51 PM daily, providing residents with flexible mobility options.

Educational Infrastructure.

Recent announcements include a Sh40 million allocation for 20 new classrooms in the broader Embakasi area, which will benefit Umoja II residents by improving educational facilities and reducing overcrowding in existing schools.

Development Planning and Future Prospects.

Umoja II’s future development is guided by multiple planning frameworks:

Annual Development Plan 2024/2025: This plan addresses Nairobi’s key challenges including rapid population growth, environmental degradation, land scarcity, housing deficit, traffic congestion, inequality, and aging infrastructure.
County Integrated Development Plan (2023-2027): This longer-term framework sets the strategic direction for Nairobi’s development, including neighborhoods like Umoja II, with the stated vision of transforming Nairobi into “a city of order, dignity, hope and opportunities for all”.
Nairobi City County Annual Development Plan FY 2025/2026: This planning document details resource allocation for upcoming development projects, with financing drawn from equitable share allocation, grants, own-source revenue, and development partner support.

Conclusion

Umoja II represents a significant residential area within Embakasi West Constituency, housing over 75,000 residents in a relatively small geographical footprint. The neighborhood offers affordable housing options compared to many parts of Nairobi, with active rental and property sales markets. Recent and ongoing infrastructure developments in sewerage, transportation, administrative facilities, and education promise to improve living conditions and property values.

For investors, homebuyers, and current residents, understanding Umoja II’s evolution, current market conditions, and development trajectory provides valuable context for making informed decisions about this important Nairobi neighborhood. As infrastructure improvements continue and Nairobi’s population grows, Umoja II is likely to remain a significant residential hub in the eastern part of Kenya’s capital city.

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