The Nairobi Expressway in the Westlands region witnessed a dramatic scene as police officers took action to bring down structures that had been erected illegally along the road. A video shared by Kenyans.co.ke captured the moment when the structures were set ablaze, causing a significant disruption in the area. This operation led to a heavy traffic jam, inconveniencing motorists who were passing through the Westlands area of Nairobi County.
Amidst the chaos, it was revealed that homeless individuals and street children often rely on these makeshift structures below the Expressway as their shelter. This situation highlights the dire circumstances faced by many Kenyans, with over 46,000 people reported to be living on the streets according to the latest census. The government’s crackdown on illegal establishments is part of a broader effort to reclaim public land that has been encroached upon, reflecting a strict approach to land management in the country.
The issue of homelessness and poverty in Kenya is further exacerbated by high rates of unemployment, with the number of workers living in extreme poverty increasing significantly in recent years. Nairobi County has been particularly affected, with a large number of individuals struggling to make ends meet. As the government continues its efforts to address these challenges, the situation below the Nairobi Expressway serves as a stark reminder of the complex issues facing the country.