The Nairobi County Government will soon be in charge of Uhuru Park and Central Park recreation centers upon the completion of renovation exercises.
This is according to Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale.
He made the announcement after a recent visit to the two parks accompanied by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.
The official handover ceremony could be held before the end of 2023 in time for the venues to host the Nairobi Festival week.
Duale explained that the military, which has been working on sprucing up these iconic venues for the past two years, is currently putting the final touches.
“Except for a few final touches, the facility is ready for handover to the County Government of Nairobi and ready for the citizens to enjoy its modern amenities,” Duale said, adding his ministry has not been left out when it comes to service delivery to the people.
Duale was accompanied by Defence PS Mr. Patrick Mariru, Lt Gen Jonah Mwangi, the VCDF, Brig Titus Sokobe, the Chief of Infrastructure in the Defence Headquarters, and other officials from the Defence.
The two parks were closed to the public in February 2021 during the time of the defunct Nairobi Metropolitan Services.
The renovation has been happening for two years and some months under the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), and since the renovation work started, the parks were opened for the first time in December 2022 during the inauguration of the Nairobi Festival.
The county boss earlier promised the parks would be opened for the public in October 2023 but would not be free as was the case. The County is yet to announce the costs.
Some of the installed structures in both the two parks are outdoor libraries, modern shades, and skating rinks at the Central Park.
Also, restaurants will now be available in Uhuru Park.
Before the renovations, the two parks had free access to all residents.
They were renowned as a site for families that wish to hang out on a low budget during the weekend, a venue for love birds, a ‘jobless corner’ place and host of major opposition rallies.
