Life in Kawangware continues to be difficult for many families despite the area being close to the heart of Nairobi. Speaking during a recent episode of Political Ringside hosted by Isaac Kweyu, aspiring Dagoretti North MP Mirimo Nyongesa shared his experiences working and living in the informal settlement for more than seven years.
He described Kawangware as a busy and vibrant community that has long been ignored even though many residents continue to struggle with poverty, poor housing, unemployment, and sanitation problems.
Nyongesa explained that while Kawangware has some important services such as roads, electricity, and water connections, many residents still face difficult living conditions every day.
A large number of people live in small houses built very close to each other using temporary materials. During heavy rains, some homes leak or become unsafe, making life harder for families already struggling financially.
The mixture of planned and informal sections in the area has also created uneven development, where some parts appear more organized while others remain neglected.
Water and sanitation remain major concerns for residents. Although there are water points across the settlement, people often spend long hours waiting to fetch water, especially during shortages. In some cases, families are forced to buy water at higher prices than they can comfortably afford.
Public toilets and sanitation facilities are also not enough for the growing population. This has contributed to poor hygiene in some sections of the settlement and increased health risks, particularly among children.
Garbage collection is another challenge affecting the area. Waste is sometimes left uncollected for long periods, leading to dirty surroundings and blocked drainage systems.
When it rains, water floods some paths and open drains overflow, making movement difficult for residents and businesses. Muddy roads and stagnant water are common in certain sections during the rainy season.
Nyongesa also pointed to unemployment as one of the biggest problems affecting young people in Kawangware.
Many youths struggle to find stable jobs or opportunities to improve their lives. According to him, this has pushed some into crime, drug abuse, and other risky activities. He noted that compared to some other informal settlements, Kawangware often receives less support from development programs and community initiatives.
He believes that improving the lives of residents requires more than physical infrastructure projects alone.
According to Nyongesa, leaders should focus on economic empowerment programs that create jobs, support small businesses, and give young people practical opportunities to earn a living. He said young leaders who understand the realities on the ground are better placed to push for solutions that directly address the needs of ordinary residents.
Despite the many challenges, Nyongesa said Kawangware still has great potential because of its hardworking residents and active community spirit. He believes that with proper support, better planning, and stronger community programs, the area can experience meaningful change.
