Nairobi faces a daily population surge that doubles its nighttime numbers, highlighting the urgent need for strategic urban planning, according to economist Jimnah Mbaru.
In a post on X, Mbaru noted that the influx of people commuting into the capital underscores the necessity for a “Transport-Led Growth Strategy.”
He emphasized that such a strategy would guide the city in efficiently moving people within Nairobi, as well as into and out of the city.
“The movement patterns show that Nairobi’s daytime population is about twice its nighttime population. This clearly signals the need for structured planning to manage the flow of people,” Mbaru stated.
He added that effective implementation would require leadership that not only understands transport-driven urban growth but is also committed to executing it fully.
Experts say that a transport-led approach can reduce congestion, boost economic productivity, and improve quality of life for both residents and commuters.
By integrating infrastructure planning with commuter patterns, Nairobi could avoid chronic traffic bottlenecks and enhance access to commercial and employment hubs.
Urban planners have long warned that without deliberate policies targeting transport and mobility, the city risks worsening congestion and inefficient urban sprawl.
Mbaru’s call adds to growing discussions on aligning Nairobi’s growth with its daily population dynamics, urging city authorities to prioritize solutions that reflect the realities of modern urban mobility.
With Nairobi continuing to expand as Kenya’s economic hub, transport-led policies could prove pivotal in shaping a sustainable, commuter-friendly capital.