Eastleigh South and Embakasi South Constituency: A Comprehensive Analysis.

Eastleigh South, located within Embakasi South Constituency, has emerged as a vibrant commercial and residential hub in Nairobi’s eastern region. This area exhibits remarkable economic dynamism alongside significant urban development challenges. This report examines the geographical features, demographic characteristics, property market trends, and infrastructure developments shaping this rapidly evolving part of Kenya’s capital.

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Geographical and Administrative Context.

Embakasi South Constituency covers approximately 12 square kilometers in the southeastern part of Nairobi, positioned away from the Central Business District. The constituency was formed following the implementation of Kenya’s 2010 constitution, which reorganized the former Embakasi Constituency (previously known as Nairobi East Constituency). This densely populated area features a cosmopolitan demographic composition, hosting residents from diverse ethnic, economic, and social backgrounds.

The constituency is administratively divided into five County Assembly Wards:

Imara Daima Ward.
Pipeline Ward.
Kware Ward.
Kwa Reuben Ward.
Kwa Njenga Ward.

Eastleigh South, represented by Member of County Assembly Nicholas Okwacho, constitutes a significant portion of this constituency and has developed into one of Nairobi’s most prominent business districts. The area’s proximity to Moi Air Base (formerly RAF Eastleigh and Eastleigh Airport) has historically influenced its development patterns, with building height restrictions that are now being reconsidered to accommodate the area’s rapid growth.

Real Estate Market Analysis.

Property & Houses for Sale and Rent in Eastleigh South –Residential Property Prices.

Eastleigh has witnessed substantial appreciation in property values, positioning it as a premium real estate market despite not being officially classified as an upscale suburb by various rental indices. The residential rental market shows remarkable pricing patterns:

Two-bedroom apartments in California Estate (within Eastleigh) command approximately Ksh 58,000 per month.
Three-bedroom units range between Ksh 70,000-80,000 monthly.
These rates notably surpass other middle-class residential areas like Embakasi, Kasarani, and Umoja by nearly three times.
Rental prices rival those in established upscale neighborhoods such as Westlands, Karen, and Kilimani.

For ownership properties, a townhouse in Eastleigh South was listed at approximately Ksh 20,000,000 in mid-2022, indicating the substantial capital investment required for property acquisition in the area.

Mixed-use Land in Eastleigh South-Land Prices and Commercial Property.

Land values in Eastleigh South reflect its status as a prime commercial district with extraordinary investment potential:

Prime residential plots command prices of approximately Ksh 150,000,000.
Standard 100×100 plots range from Ksh 205,000,000 to Ksh 210,000,000.
A 72×100 plot near Ushirika estate along Muratina street sells for Ksh 150,000,000.
50×150 plot in California area priced at Ksh 180,000,000.
50×100 plots in strategic locations like Muyuyu near 4th street fetch Ksh 110,000,000.
Plots with frontage on main streets command premium prices, such as those touching 4th street between 1st and 2nd avenues at Ksh 120,000,000.
Smaller commercial plots, like a quarter-acre in Eastleigh Section 3 near Mediheal Hospital, list for Ksh 60,000,000.

The substantial variation in land prices demonstrates the importance of specific location factors within Eastleigh South, including proximity to main roads, commercial centers, and established institutions.

Infrastructure Development Initiatives.

Current Infrastructure Challenges.

Despite its economic vitality, Eastleigh South faces significant infrastructure deficiencies:

Roads deteriorate rapidly due to intensive construction activity and heavy commercial vehicles.
Persistent problems with drainage systems and sewage management.
Frequent electricity blackouts disrupting business operations.
Inadequate water supply networks struggling to meet growing demand.
The construction boom has exacerbated these issues, with large-scale developments often leaving behind damaged roads and drainage systems that remain unrepaired after project completion.

Recent and Ongoing Infrastructure Projects.

Several major infrastructure initiatives are underway to address these challenges:

1. World Bank-Funded Informal Settlement Improvement
  - Ksh 578 million allocation for upgrading informal settlements including areas in Embakasi East.
  - Development of approximately 5 kilometers of roads.
  - Installation of 232 street light poles.
  - Improvements to stormwater drainage, solid waste management, and water supply systems.
2. Presidential Infrastructure Commitment (March 2025)
  - Rehabilitation of the 2nd Avenue road within 2-3 months.
  - Implementation of a 60km sewer line to address drainage issues.
  - Collaboration with Kenya Power to resolve persistent blackouts.
  - Water supply enhancement through the Northern Collector Tunnel project, expected to deliver 140 million liters of water to Nairobi.
3. Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Embakasi Development
  - Creation of an integrated transport hub around the Nairobi SGR Terminus.
  - Development of a new urban sub-center within Nairobi.
  - Improved inter-linkages between various modes of transport.
  - The planning area spans both Nairobi City County and Machakos County, covering Embakasi East and Embakasi South constituencies.
4. Nairobi County Annual Development Plan 2025/2026
  - Focus on transformative infrastructure to enhance economic opportunities.
  - Participatory planning process incorporating community input.
  - Targeted interventions addressing traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and inadequate social infrastructure.

Conclusion

Eastleigh South in Embakasi South Constituency represents one of Nairobi’s most dynamic urban environments, characterized by remarkable commercial growth, escalating property values, and substantial infrastructure challenges. The area has transformed from a modest residential neighborhood into a thriving business district with land and property prices comparable to Nairobi’s traditional upscale suburbs.

The planned infrastructure improvements, particularly in transportation, water supply, electricity reliability, and sewage systems, have the potential to significantly enhance the area’s livability and support continued economic growth. However, these developments must be carefully managed to ensure inclusive benefits for all residents and to prevent further environmental degradation.

The evolving policy environment, including potential revisions to building height restrictions near Moi Air Base, may unlock additional development potential in coming years. The implementation of the comprehensive development plans outlined in the County Annual Development Plan 2025/2026 will be crucial in determining whether Eastleigh South can balance its rapid commercial expansion with sustainable urban development principles.

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