Ngong residents stage protests over poor road

Residents of Ngong in Kajiado protest deplorable condition of the Maasai-Silanga road in Olkeri Ward. [David Gichuru, Standard]

Residents of Ngong in Kajiado took to the streets on Thursday, June 29, to protest against the deplorable condition of a road in their locality.

The residents assert that the political leadership in the area has neglected their responsibility to tarmac Maasai-Silanga road, despite the road being designated for tarmacking.

"This road has been dusty for a decade now. We had a meeting with Kenya Urban Roads Authority this week, but it felt like a shouting match. They didn't address our plight," said one of the residents.

The road, located in Olkeri Ward, has yet to receive the promised improvements, leading to dissatisfaction among the community.

"We keep causing accidents on this road, and now passengers are questioning our qualifications as riders," claimed one of the bodaboda riders.

They assert that no progress has been made over the past five years, accusing political leaders of negligence.

With a determination to prompt action, the residents issued a stern warning that their protests would intensify in the coming weeks. They announced plans to stage similar demonstrations every Wednesday, strategically exerting pressure on the county government until their concerns are adequately addressed.

"To alleviate growing frustration and prevent further unrest, it is imperative for the government to acknowledge the grievances of the residents and take immediate steps to rectify the road conditions. Repairing the road and providing reliable infrastructure would not only address our concerns but also contribute to the overall development and well-being of the area," said Dorine Karemi, one of the residents.