Several Kenyans Raise Alarm Over Rising Insecurity In Nairobi CBD

A growing number of Kenyans have taken to social media to voice their concerns about the rising insecurity in the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD). Recent posts and personal stories circulating on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram describe a surge in daylight muggings, phone snatchings, and other criminal activities, leaving many citizens feeling vulnerable.

Citizens are sharing harrowing experiences, with many pointing to specific areas within the CBD where they feel particularly unsafe. The complaints highlight a pattern of criminals operating in groups, often targeting pedestrians during rush hour. Several users have shared stories of losing their phones and wallets, while others have reported being physically assaulted in broad daylight. The online conversation has created a sense of collective frustration, with many demanding a more visible and effective police presence.

Public Demands for Action

The public’s outcry is not just about the incidents themselves but also a demand for accountability from law enforcement. Hashtags related to security in Nairobi have been trending, with people urging the National Police Service and Nairobi County leadership to take immediate action.

In response to the mounting pressure, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has acknowledged the security concerns. He has held meetings with top security officials to devise strategies aimed at curbing the criminal activities and restoring public confidence. The Governor’s office has stated that efforts are being intensified to increase police patrols and implement measures to protect citizens and businesses.

While the government has committed to addressing the issue, many Kenyans remain skeptical, arguing that official promises have yet to translate into tangible changes on the ground. The ongoing social media conversation serves as a powerful testament to the public’s desire for a safer city.

Sakaja bans hawking on CBD roads

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has introduced new rules to reduce the number of hawkers in the city’s Central Business District (CBD).

Sakaja said the rules are aimed at restoring order and dignity to the capital city.

He spoke after meeting with inspectorate officers on October 25, 2023.

“There will be no hawking on the road. In fact, I’m enforcing it from tomorrow (Thursday) morning, even around the bus station, I’ll not allow that,” Sakaja said.

He said the move would not only improve safety for hawkers, who risk their lives selling on the roads, but also make it easier for motorists to move around and park their cars.

Sakaja warned his inspectorate officers to be fair when implementing the new rules.

He praised them for their work since he took office and said they had restored the tarnished image of the City Inspectorate.

Sakaja also directed the Chief Officer in charge of Security, Anthony Kimani, to ensure that all officers wear uniforms.

“All our officers must be in uniform. I don’t want anyone operating without a uniform unless it is part of our plain clothes operation team,” he said.

Sakaja’s announcement comes days after an incident in which a popular TikToker accused an inspectorate officer of illegally entering her car and bullying her.

Sakaja was also criticized after officers were caught on camera harassing and impounding hawkers’ goods last week. The Governor publicly apologized and compensated each affected hawker with Sh10,000.