Sakaja Ordered To Open Central Park In Nairobi Immediately
This is after the Green Belt Movement moved to court to challenge the closure of the park arguing that it was done without public participation.
Viral Tea Ke Writer 
Nairobi residents can finally breathe a sigh of relief after the Milimani Law Courts' Environment division on Monday, December 16, ordered the reopening of Central Park in the Kenyan capital, after it had been closed for nearly three years.
The Milimani Environment and Lands Court, in their ruling, demanded that the Nairobi City County government led by Governor Johnson Sakaja reopen Central Park which is a public asset, with immediate effect.
This is after the Green Belt Movement moved to court to challenge the closure of the park arguing that it was done without public participation. According to the Green Belt Movement, a body that champions environmental conservation, the park is the property of the people and as such, they have a right to access the facility.
The ruling mandated that local authorities move to promptly reopen Central Park and see to it that it remains accessible to all citizens.
Entrance to the new look Central Park. /YOUTUBE
"The ELC court has today ordered the immediate reopening of Central Park! Never doubt the power of the people when we stand together for our green spaces," The Green Belt Movement announced after the ruling, adding "Nairobians, the park is yours again. If denied access call us on 0700392106."
In November, the Nairobi County Government attributed the prolonged closure of Central Park to ongoing works being facilitated by the national government. The works were expected to be completed in December 2024.
Central Park has for years served as an essential recreational area for residents and visitors alike. This development hands a win for Kenyans seeking an alternative to Uhuru Park, which is its opposite along Kenyatta Avenue.
It provides a space for various activities such as jogging, picnicking, and social gatherings. However, the park faced closures due to various administrative decisions or legal disputes over land use and management.
The closure had raised concerns regarding access to green spaces in urban areas, which are crucial for public health and well-being. Access to parks is linked to improved mental and physical health outcomes. With the reopening of Central Park, residents will engage in outdoor activities that promote fitness, reduce stress levels, and enhance relaxation.
The court’s decision to reopen Central Park is a significant step towards restoring access to essential recreational spaces in Nairobi. It reflects a broader understanding of the value that such areas bring to urban life.
Urban parks play a vital role in enhancing biodiversity and improving air quality. By reopening Central Park, there is an opportunity to maintain ecological balance within the city. Furthermore, parks serve as communal spaces where individuals from diverse backgrounds meet as well as foster community interaction.
On the other hand, Uhuru Park was handed over by the Ministry of Defence on April 28, 2024, after rehabilitation works by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
"The park was officially handed over to Nairobi City County, by the National Government, on 28th April 2024 and has remained open other than the temporary closure caused by damages following recent protests witnessed across the city," read the statement by the county government.
"During these protests, property in the park was vandalized, including the caravan, aeroplanes, sculptures, and toilets. After investigations by relevant authorities, the park was cleared and cleaned up with the doors reopening on 28th September 2024 and has remained fully accessible to the public."
