Uhuru Park, Nairobi’s green space, opened its gates after a two-year renovation project.
The park and Central Park underwent significant improvements, spearheaded by the Nairobi Metropolitan Service (NMS), before closing in 2022.
With its renewed infrastructure and diverse offerings, the park is poised to become a vibrant hub for recreation, relaxation, and cultural activities, serving the needs of Nairobi’s residents for generations to come.
Governor Johnson Sakaja announced the reopening on Sunday, highlighting the park’s significance.
“This event signifies the return of this facility to the people of Nairobi. The Kenya Defence Forces have completed their work, and the park is now ready to serve the public for various functions.”
The revamped Uhuru Park boasts a refreshed aesthetic with manicured lawns, maintained trees, and picturesque walkways. Visitors can now enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including:
- Historical Tributes: Uhuru Park continues to honour Kenya’s history with restored monuments dedicated to the Mau Mau freedom fighters and national figures.
- Nature and Leisure: A nature trail, plant nursery, and outdoor library provide opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Jogging and cycling tracks cater to fitness enthusiasts.
- Family Fun: A children’s play area with bouncing castles and merry-go-rounds keeps younger visitors entertained.
- Cultural Experiences: An outdoor amphitheatre with an audio-visual screen and an events garden shaped like a nyatiti (a traditional string instrument) offer unique venues for cultural events.
- Modern Conveniences: The park features a skating park, a shearer garden, and modern restrooms for added comfort. Security measures include 24-hour surveillance.
Uhuru Park has also introduced some exciting new features:
- Upcycled Eateries: Converted double-decker buses now serve as restaurants, adding a touch of nostalgia and enhancing the park’s aesthetics. Ice cream parlours built with antique materials cater specifically to children.
- Waterfront Transformation: The man-made lake has been revitalized into a beautiful waterfront area, potentially featuring a Swahili restaurant and an aquarium named “Uhuru Aquascape.”
“The revamped green spaces will play a crucial role in environmental management, social and economic development, and the well-being of Nairobi’s residents.”
While Uhuru Park celebrates its reopening, Central Park remains under construction. The planned features include a botanical garden showcasing Kenya’s diverse flora, management offices, event spaces, and dedicated areas for exercise and tourism.
Once completed, Central Park will also have security personnel on duty 24 hours a day and offer a variety of restaurants and leisure facilities.
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