Nairobians to enjoy new fun games at Uhuru Park
After more than a year of closure, the newly renovated Uhuru and Central parks are set to be reopened to the public before the end of the year.
The previous Nairobi County Assembly gave the nod for their refurbishment amid growing concerns the recreational facilities were fast losing their allure. Motion allowing the Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) to spruce up the parks was led by then-Majority Leader Abdi Guyo. So much had the status of Uhuru Park waned that it became a den of criminals posing as visitors, gum-sniffing street boys and piles of litter on the grass lawns, pathways and benches.
In fact, the once-glorious dam at the centre of the park had turned into a dull, smelly swamp with patches of hyacinth and aquatic weeds choking the fish underneath.
“We must cherish parks and green spaces. As you are aware, when you go to Uhuru Park now, it has turned into a den of thieves and a haven for street families,” Guyo, now Isiolo governor, said while making his case for a refurbished park.
He added: “Around the city, the only area where someone can go and unwind is Uhuru Park, but now members of the public cannot access the park because of these vices.”
And now, thanks to the NMS and a hefty budget injection from county coffers, Uhuru Park is now a clean and magnificent green square worthy of international accolades.
With the renovation at the tail-end of completion, the park has undergone a makeover that will excite even the dullest of eyes.
One year down the line, the park is breathing a new lease of life, thanks to the installation and erection of fresh features that are giving it a dazzling touch.
Maintained trees
The 12.9-hectare park also boasts manicured lawns, maintained trees, enhanced walkways, and green spaces.
A tour by People Daily revealed that outdoor libraries have been set for use, which will be used for book launches as well. Also, a skating rink has been created in Central Park, as well as a water table, which was not there before. There is also an outdoor amphitheatre fitted with an audiovisual screen, a Nyatiti-shaped events garden, as well as a children’s play area with bouncing castles and merry-go-rounds.
It houses a monument to honour health workers, who lost their lives battling the Coronavirus pandemic.
The Mau Mau freedom fighters’ monuments have also been touched up with a fresh coat of paint, and water fountains reassembled. The walkways have been replaced with colourful slabs surrounded by well-manicured lawns, beautifully trimmed trees and sculptures of different animals.
Another massive attraction at the park is the skeleton of a giant aeroplane that has since been installed. From a distance, it looks like an aircraft that is about to take off.
The area that was previously used as a podium was brought down and the open field now boasts several small fountains and expansive public benches made of hardwood.
Another massive attraction at the park is the skeleton of a giant aeroplane that has since been installed. From a distance, it looks like an aircraft that is about to take off.
One of the imposing gates with the word ‘Karibu’ inscribed on it, stands directly opposite Serena Hotel.
A similar gate will be towards Parliament Buildings, another access and exit point will be adjacent to Nyayo House, while the other gate links Green Park Terminus. The old neglected toilets and urinals have been replaced with modern lavatories.
Visitors will get to sample exotic meals from different parts of the county.
With the facilities put in place, Governor Johnson Sakaja hinted that there could be an entrance fee to the parks, which will be used for maintenance once it is opened to the public.
“People will have to give a small amount to at least help in the management of this park. We want it to remain this way forever,” he said.
