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Kenya Railways Explains Demolition of Wamatangi’s Businesses Near Nyayo Stadium
Kenya Railways Corporation has defended the demolition of businesses near Nyayo National Stadium, saying the move supports infrastructure upgrades ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The corporation said it is reclaiming land within a railway corridor to allow the construction of new transport facilities aimed at easing movement during the tournament.
Demolition Carried Out Under Security Supervision
On Tuesday night, bulldozers moved in and demolished several structures in the area. Security officers supervised the operation and patrolled the site throughout the exercise.
Among the affected properties were a restaurant and car wash linked to Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi. Other demolished businesses included liquor outlets and beauty salons operating within the corridor.
Rail Expansion Plans Ahead of AFCON 2027
In a statement released on Wednesday, Kenya Railways outlined plans to construct a railway station next to Nyayo National Stadium. The corporation also plans to build a railway spur line from Nairobi Central Station through the Nyayo Stadium area and Kibera, extending to Talanta Sports City Stadium.
Kenya Railways said the project will improve commuter movement during AFCON and support long-term urban transport needs.
Kenya Railways Explains Demolition of Wamatangi’s Businesses Near Nyayo Stadium
Notices Issued to Occupants
The corporation stated that it issued eviction notices to all occupants before the demolition. It said the notices required them to vacate the railway corridor to pave the way for construction.
“Kenya Railways is repossessing land identified for this development,” the statement read. It added that any illegal structures found on the corridor face demolition without further notice, at the owner’s cost.
Wamatangi Claims Political Persecution
After the demolition, Governor Wamatangi visited the site and criticised the move. He described the action as political persecution.
Wamatangi said he began operating in the area in 1994 and held a long-term lease from Kenya Railways. He claimed he had consistently paid all required fees over the years.
Accompanied by religious leaders, he questioned why the demolition proceeded despite what he described as a valid court order stopping the exercise.
Legal Dispute Over the Property
Court records show that Wamatangi filed a petition at the Milimani Commercial Magistrates’ Courts before the demolition. He argued that Kenya Railways had leased the property to him for more than two decades.
He also claimed that officers linked to Kenya Railways visited the premises on December 17, 2025. According to him, they threatened eviction without issuing a written notice.
The court case is ongoing and is expected to determine the legality of the demolition.
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