Frustrated Lumumba Drive Residents Protest Over Terrible Road Conditions
Nairobi Locals Demand Immediate Action as Poor Roads Disrupt Daily Life
Frustrated residents of Lumumba Drive in Nairobi’s Roysambu area took to the streets in protest over the terrible roads that have made life unbearable. The demonstrators, angered by the worsening conditions, called for immediate intervention from local leaders, including area MP Kamande Mwafrika and the Nairobi City County Government. Heavy rains have turned the already dilapidated roads into near-impassable pathways, filled with potholes and flooding.
The protesters, chanting “Haki Yetu” (Our Right), marched along the damaged roads before being dispersed by police. Many expressed their frustration over the lack of action, despite repeated complaints. “The terrible roads are affecting businesses and daily movement. We can’t wait any longer,” one resident shouted. A local leader who tried to address the crowd was heckled, with residents demanding solutions, not excuses.
The protest highlights a growing crisis in Nairobi’s residential areas, where poor infrastructure continues to burden residents. Just a day earlier, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki had promised that stalled road projects would be prioritized. However, Lumumba Drive’s terrible roads remain neglected, fueling public outrage.
Why Residents Are Protesting Terrible Roads
The condition of Lumumba Drive’s roads has deteriorated significantly, especially during the ongoing rainy season. Potholes have deepened, drainage systems are clogged, and flooding has made commuting a nightmare. Residents say the terrible roads have led to increased transport costs, vehicle damage, and even accidents.
Small business owners are among the worst affected, as customers avoid the area due to accessibility issues. “My shop used to get many customers, but now people don’t want to struggle through these roads,” a local trader lamented. The poor state of infrastructure has also raised health concerns, with stagnant water becoming a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Despite numerous complaints to local authorities, no repairs have been made. The residents’ patience has worn thin, leading to the spontaneous protest. “We’ve been ignored for too long. Enough is enough,” said one demonstrator. The protestors have vowed to continue their demonstrations until their demands are met.
Government Response to the Road Crisis
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki recently stated that the government is prioritizing stalled road projects before initiating new ones. Speaking in Tharaka Nithi County, he emphasized the importance of good road networks for economic growth. However, Lumumba Drive residents feel such promises have not translated into action.
The Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) is responsible for maintaining constituency roads, with advisory input from local committees. Yet, many Nairobi neighborhoods, including Roysambu, remain neglected. Critics argue that corruption and mismanagement have delayed crucial repairs, leaving residents to suffer.
Area MP Kamande Mwafrika has yet to issue a formal statement following the protests. Residents are now calling for transparency and accountability in road maintenance funds. “We need to know where the money for road repairs is going,” demanded one protester. Without swift intervention, tensions are likely to escalate further.
Impact of Terrible Roads on Daily Life
The terrible roads in Lumumba Drive have disrupted nearly every aspect of daily life. Children struggle to get to school, public transport operators avoid the route, and emergency vehicles face delays. The situation has forced many residents to take longer, more expensive routes just to move around.
Local matatu operators have increased fares due to vehicle wear and tear caused by the poor roads. “We spend too much on repairs, so we have no choice but to charge more,” explained one driver. This has further strained household budgets in an already tough economy.
Additionally, the flooding has led to property damage, with some homes experiencing water infiltration. “Every time it rains, my house gets flooded because the drainage is blocked,” a homeowner shared. The cumulative effect of these challenges has pushed the community to the brink.
What’s Next for Lumumba Drive Residents?
The protesters have given authorities a one-week ultimatum to address the road issue or face larger demonstrations. Community leaders are organizing follow-up meetings with county officials to push for immediate repairs. Social media campaigns have also been launched to amplify their demands.
If no action is taken, residents threaten to stage a sit-in on major highways, a tactic that has forced government responses in the past. “We will paralyze traffic if they keep ignoring us,” warned one activist. The growing frustration signals a potential escalation in civil unrest over infrastructure neglect.
For now, the ball is in the government’s court. Will they act swiftly to fix Lumumba Drive’s terrible roads, or will the protests intensify? The coming days will determine whether Nairobi’s leaders are truly listening to their citizens.
A Call for Urgent Action on Terrible Roads
The protest by Lumumba Drive residents underscores a critical issue affecting many Nairobi neighborhoods—terrible roads. With the rainy season worsening conditions, immediate intervention is needed to prevent further disruption. The government must prioritize road repairs to restore normalcy and rebuild public trust.
Residents remain hopeful but determined. “We just want better roads, nothing more,” said one demonstrator. Until then, the chants of “Haki Yetu” will continue to echo through Nairobi’s streets.
