Mbagathi Way and Kibra Constituency: A Comprehensive Analysis.
Mbagathi Way (now Raila Odinga Way) and Kibra Constituency represent significant geographical areas in Nairobi County, characterized by unique demographic, economic, and developmental features. This report explores the key area facts, current property market prices, and recent infrastructure developments in these interconnected urban spaces.
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Kibra Constituency: Background and Demographics.
| Ward | Area (km²) | Population |
|---|---|---|
| Sarang’ombe | 0.4 | 28,182 |
| Woodley/Kenyatta Golf Course | 9.5 | 35,355 |
| Makina | 0.7 | 25,242 |
| Laini Saba | 0.4 | 29,000 |
| Lindi | 0.5 | 35,158 |
| Total | 12.1 | 178,284 |
Notably, Kibra houses Kenya’s largest informal settlement, characterized by considerable poverty levels and socioeconomic challenges. The constituency was historically part of Lang’ata and Dagoretti constituencies until prior to the 2013 general elections when it was designated as a separate electoral unit by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.
Mbagathi Way: Evolution and Significance.
Mbagathi Way represents a crucial thoroughfare that has undergone significant transformation in recent years. In 2021, the road was officially renamed Raila Odinga Way in honor of the former Prime Minister’s contributions to Kenya’s democratic and economic development. The renaming came after approval by the Nairobi County Assembly, which recognized his fight for “greater democratic space, good governance, rule of law and development of infrastructure”.
The road holds historical significance as Raila Odinga himself commissioned its construction in August 2005, pioneering the use of concrete and cement materials. This construction approach, while 40-50% more expensive than traditional bitumen roads, offers longevity of 40-50 years with minimal maintenance requirements.
Strategically, Mbagathi Way serves as a vital link connecting Lang’ata, Madaraka, and Rongai estates to the broader Nairobi transportation network. Its position creates an essential corridor for both commercial and residential traffic flow in the southwestern part of the city.
Real Estate Market: House and Land Prices.
Cheap Apartments for Sale in Mbagathi way Kibra: Residential Property Prices.
The property market along Mbagathi Way and in Kibra Constituency exhibits considerable variation, reflecting the diverse socioeconomic landscape:
- Apartments and Flats:
- One-bedroom apartment in Kibera Highrise (Mbagathi Way): KSh 2,800,000. (as of 2020)
- Three-bedroom apartment on Mbagathi Way (Highrise): KSh 12,000,000.
- Four-bedroom house in a gated community along Mbagathi Way: KSh 27,000,000.
- Olympic estate property with three 2-bedroom units and servant quarters: KSh 11,000,000.
- Rental Market:
- Two-bedroom apartment in Mbagathi area: KSh 36,000 per month.
- Three-bedroom apartment near Riara (Mbagathi Way): KSh 77,000 per month.
- Student hostel apartments along Mbagathi Way: KSh 6,500 per month.
These price points demonstrate the significant range in the area’s property values, reflecting variations in property size, amenities, specific location, and target market segment.
Commercial Land for Sale in Mbagathi way Kibra – Land Prices.
Commercial and residential land in the vicinity commands substantial prices:
- Commercial Land:
- A one-acre commercial plot along Mbagathi Road in Kibra was available for development. (specific price not indicated)
- Premium Land:
- Park-viewing land bordering Nairobi National Park and touching Mbagathi River: KSh 11,000,000 per acre.
The land market in this area benefits from the strategic location between urban centers and natural attractions, making it particularly valuable for both residential and commercial development.
Recent Infrastructure Developments: Road Network Improvements.
Mbagathi Way and the broader Kibra area have witnessed substantial infrastructure enhancements in recent years:
- The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has implemented comprehensive upgrades including tarmacking, recarpeting of dilapidated sections, painting, and the addition of pedestrian walkways.
- The Upper Hill and Mbagathi Way Link Road has significantly improved connectivity with spacious pedestrian walkways and clear signage for drivers.
- In February 2024, Governor Sakaja’s administration completed the surfacing of Mbagathi Access Road and corresponding parking facilities as part of broader county mobility improvements.
Major Construction Projects.
Several landmark projects have transformed the area’s infrastructure profile:
- A KSh 3 billion footbridge project commenced in July 2021, focusing on upgrading the Langata-Mbagathi-Mai Mahiu crossing with a four-lane flyover on Langata Road, expansion of adjacent roads, and construction of a T-Mall footbridge on Mbagathi Way.
- The T-Mall footbridge project necessitated temporary road closures in November 2021, highlighting the scale and significance of this infrastructure investment.
- The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) indicated that the footbridge construction project would span 36 months across seven phases, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of this infrastructure upgrade.
Educational Facilities Development.
The National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) has funded several educational institution projects in Kibra, enhancing educational infrastructure:
- Shadrack Kimalel Secondary School: Completed at a cost of KSh 14,000,000
- Mbagathi Secondary School: Completed at a cost of KSh 45,000,000
- Raila Educational Centre Secondary School: Completed at a cost of KSh 18,982,759
- Toi Primary School: Renovation of 24 classrooms at a cost of KSh 9,600,000
- Kibera Primary School: Purchase of a 51-seater school bus at KSh 7,000,0001
Future Development Plans.
The government has committed to opening up 408 kilometers of access roads in several informal settlements in Nairobi, including Kibra, as announced by the Transport Cabinet Secretary in August 2020. This initiative aims to improve mobility and accessibility within these areas, potentially catalyzing further economic development and improved living conditions.
Conclusion
Mbagathi Way and Kibra Constituency represent dynamic urban spaces undergoing significant transformation. While Kibra faces challenges associated with informal settlements and high poverty levels, recent infrastructure investments signal a positive trajectory toward improved connectivity, enhanced educational facilities, and better public amenities. The property market reflects this mixed landscape, with considerable variation in prices based on location specifics, property characteristics, and target demographics.
The renaming of Mbagathi Way to Raila Odinga Way symbolizes the area’s historical and political significance, while recent infrastructure developments—particularly the footbridge project and road upgrades—demonstrate ongoing commitment to improving urban mobility and accessibility. As these developments continue, both the residential appeal and commercial viability of properties in the area are likely to strengthen, potentially driving further increases in property values and contributing to the overall development of this important section of Nairobi.
Related
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2.How much does land cost per square meter in Lindi?
3.Are there any upcoming infrastructure projects in Woodley?
4.What are the most affordable housing options in Sarang’ombe?
5.How has property prices in Makina changed over the past five years?
Related
1.What are the current house prices in Laini Saba?
2.How much does land cost per square meter in Lindi?
3.Are there any upcoming infrastructure projects in Woodley?
4.What are the most affordable housing options in Sarang’ombe?
5.How has property prices in Makina changed over the past five years?