“This Is Unacceptable!”—Runda Residents Protest Alleged Land Grab Backed by NEMA

“This Is Unacceptable!”—Runda Residents Protest Alleged Land Grab Backed by NEMA

Tension gripped Runda on Saturday as furious residents poured into the streets, protesting what they called a blatant land grab. The demonstrators accused the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) of enabling developers to erect high-rise apartments on land meant for public use.

“We’re Saying No!”—Residents Reject Apartment Construction

Led by the Runda Residents Association, the crowd voiced deep concern over the environmental and social impact of the proposed development.

“The challenge here is that there is a basin called the Runda basin,” said Chris Getonga, chairman of the association. “If this development goes forward, we will have ecological issues. That’s why we are saying No!” he declared.

Residents fear the basin, which collects water from Eliud Mathu and Benin Drive, could flood or collapse under pressure from construction.

“Our By-Laws Are Being Violated”—Getonga Decries Impunity

Getonga didn’t stop at environmental concerns. He accused developers of violating Runda’s strict residential by-laws.

“We have by-laws—no bars, no nightclubs in Runda,” he emphasized. “Suddenly, we are going to have all of them,” he warned.

He claimed the estate’s security had already deteriorated due to unchecked development.

“Our security will be threatened,” Getonga said. “It’s time we told the government that this is unacceptable,” he added.

“Who Approved This?”—Residents Demand Accountability

Anger boiled over as residents demanded transparency from NEMA and other government agencies. They insisted someone had approved the controversial permits.

“Somebody approved this, and we must know who it was,” Getonga stated. “Beyond protesting, I appeal to all residents to reach out to their leaders and stop this impunity,” he urged.

The protest highlighted growing frustration over the rapid urbanization of Nairobi’s affluent neighborhoods, often at the expense of community welfare.

“We Won’t Be Silenced”—Community Vows to Keep Fighting

Despite the tension, residents remained united and determined to protect their environment and lifestyle.

“We won’t be silenced. We will fight for our homes,” said one protester. “This is our land, and we deserve respect,” another added.

As the dust settles, all eyes now turn to NEMA and the developers. Will they respond, or will the protests escalate?

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“This Is Unacceptable!”—Runda Residents Protest Alleged Land Grab Backed by NEMA