Sakaja Introduces Policy to Regulate Nairobi Construction

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has officially gazetted the Development Control Policy 2026, aimed at regulating building approvals and addressing unplanned construction across the county.

In a statement dated July 17, Sakaja said the policy will guide the approval of buildings and land developments while promoting orderly, sustainable urban growth.

“Nairobi City County has officially gazetted the Development Control Policy 2026, marking a major milestone in Governor Johnson Sakaja’s efforts to restore order in the capital’s rapidly expanding built environment and curb unplanned developments,” the statement read.

Sakaja Gazettes New Development Control Policy to Guide Future Construction

The governor explained that future development approvals will be guided by zoning regulations, building height limits, density controls, environmental safeguards and infrastructure capacity.

“Under the new policy, development approvals will be guided by clearly defined zoning regulations, building height limits, density controls, environmental safeguards and infrastructure capacity. New developments will also be aligned with the availability of essential services such as water, sewerage systems and road networks to prevent undue strain on existing infrastructure,” Sakaja stated.

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Additionally, Sakaja said the framework was developed through extensive public participation involving resident associations, professionals, developers and local communities.

He noted that the consultative process sought to balance investment opportunities with the interests of existing neighbourhoods while ensuring orderly urban growth.

Governor Sakaja further described the Development Control Policy as a key pillar of his administration’s vision of building a modern, well-planned and livable city.

Residents Urged to Comply With Policy

He also noted that the gazettement follows the policy’s approval by the Nairobi City County Assembly and fulfils its commitment to establish an enforceable development control framework for the capital.

Sakaja added that urban planners have long linked inconsistent development controls to overcrowding, overstretched infrastructure, incompatible land uses and the loss of public open spaces in different parts of Nairobi.

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As a result, the governor noted that he expects the new policy to strengthen compliance, improve enforcement and provide greater certainty for residents, developers and investors.

In addition, Sakaja urged developers, property owners and residents to familiarise themselves with the Development Control Policy 2026, which is now in force following its official gazettement.

“The county has urged developers, property owners and residents to familiarise themselves with the new policy, which is now in force following its official gazettement,” read part of the statement.

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Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja makes an address at a past press conference outside City Hall. PHOTO/Sakaja