President William Ruto on Friday night conducted an unannounced inspection tour of Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), assessing ongoing infrastructure upgrades ahead of the Africa Forward Summit scheduled for May 11–12 in the Kenyan capital.
The late-night tour brought together top national and county leaders, including Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah. The delegation inspected newly upgraded roads, pedestrian walkways, drainage systems, and modern street lighting installations within the CBD.
According to the Nairobi County Government, the works are part of a broader collaboration between the national government and county authorities aimed at modernising the city and improving mobility and safety in the downtown area.
President Ruto praised the pace of the improvements during the inspection, saying the government was committed to transforming Nairobi into a world-class city capable of hosting major international events and attracting investment.
“We want Nairobi to reflect the ambitions of our country. Clean streets, proper lighting, better roads and organised public spaces are part of creating a competitive capital city,” President Ruto said during the tour.
Governor Sakaja said the facelift was intended to improve both aesthetics and functionality within the city centre.
“This is not just about beautification. It is about restoring order, improving security and ensuring Nairobi works for residents, businesses and visitors alike,” Sakaja said.
Images and videos from the nighttime inspection quickly circulated on social media, with supporters praising the leaders for taking a hands-on approach to urban renewal and supervision of public works projects.
However, critics argued that the inspection focused largely on showcase sections of the CBD while deeper urban problems remain unresolved. Some residents pointed to persistent garbage accumulation, clogged drainage channels, flooding during heavy rains, and deteriorating roads in surrounding neighbourhoods.
Urban planning analysts also noted that Nairobi’s long-term infrastructure challenges would require sustained investment beyond preparations for international conferences and high-profile events.
The Africa Forward Summit, expected to attract regional leaders, investors and development partners, is seen as an important platform for discussing economic growth, technology, infrastructure and governance across the continent.
Kenyan authorities have intensified preparations in recent weeks to ensure the capital presents a positive image to international delegates.
