Demolitions at the Mariguini informal settlement in South B, Nairobi, have left more than 5,000 families without shelter as the government moves to reclaim the land for a new affordable housing project. The exercise, which began in earnest on January 13, 2026, saw residents forced to salvage household belongings from the remains of their homes.
The evictions were reportedly preceded by threats from unidentified groups who warned residents to vacate or face forced removal. While the government has begun distributing Sh30,000 in relocation facilitation to some of those recorded during an earlier enumeration exercise, many residents argue the sum is insufficient to secure alternative housing in the city, especially during the current school term.
Legal representatives for the affected families have challenged the timing and legality of the move. An advocate representing the residents stated that the evictions occurred despite a court order requiring the government to address compensation issues before any displacement. The court is expected to hear the matter on January 28 to determine fair compensation rates for individuals who have occupied the land for more than two decades.
The planned redevelopment of the six-acre site is intended to consist of high-rise blocks reaching 10 floors, containing roughly 2,600 residential units. According to project plans, the development will include one, two, and three-room units, alongside social amenities such as nursery schools, a primary school, and a social hall. The site has long been earmarked under the Kenya Slum Upgrading Program (KENSUP).
Community leaders had previously submitted a list of demands to the state, including requests for a rent-to-own period of 30 years and a 40-month grace period to save for deposits. Despite these negotiations, the sudden start of demolitions has left the community in a state of crisis, with many families currently camping in the open near the site.
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