KENYA: Poor Drainage Systems In Nairobi Affect Businesses As Local Traders Laments Lack Of Sales

By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya

Business owners in some parts of Kahawa West, Nairobi County, are calling for urgent government action, as poorly maintained drainage systems continue to cause health and safety concerns, affecting local commerce.

The lack of proper management has left drainage systems overflowing, creating discomfort and deterring customers.

Some traders who spoke to AFRICAN CULTURE TV, expressed their frustrations over the ordeals and explained how their businesses are affected.

John Onyango, a small business owner along one of Nairobi’s main roads, shared his frustration, citing the foul smell from the blocked drains as a significant challenge to his business.

He said :”It’s uncomfortable to do business here,” he said. “The smell from the drainage is unbearable, especially on hot days. Customers avoid passing by because of it, and it’s negatively impacting our sales.”

Mary Wanjiku and Beatrice Mwangi, two other business owners in the area, echoed similar concerns. Wanjiku explained, “The drainage issue is hurting us. Customers don’t want to step into the area because of the water and the smell.”

Mwangi added, “We are really struggling here. It’s hard to maintain regular customers with such conditions.”

Many business owners along the roadside reported similar grievances, emphasising the overflowing drains and stagnant water have made some areas difficult to navigate, particularly during the rainy season when the situation worsens.

These drainage issues have raised health concerns and created breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other disease-carrying pests.

Residents and business owners are urging Nairobi County government officials to address the problem, hoping that proper drainage management will make the area more accessible and comfortable for both vendors and their customers.

They’re calling for a swift response, particularly as the holiday season approaches and businesses hope for a rise in customer visits.

However, attempts by AFRICAN CULTURE TV to reach out to the Nairobi County Environment department to get response about the plight of the traders, proved abortive as of press time, as both text messages and calls made didn’t go through.