Nairobi County has launched a dramatic crackdown on Kenya Power, escalating a long-standing dispute over Ksh 4.8 billion in unpaid land rates. Early one Monday morning, county officials arrived at Stima Plaza, Kenya Power’s headquarters, blocking all entry and exit points with garbage trucks. The surprise move didn’t stop there—essential services like water supply were cut off, sewer lines sealed, and parked vehicles were towed away, causing chaos as employees and visitors were left stranded outside.
This enforcement action marks the culmination of years of frustration as Nairobi County has been demanding wayleave payments from Kenya Power, arguing that the power company has been using county land without paying the required fees since 2016.
Despite numerous notices and deadlines, the company failed to settle its debts, leading the county to take more drastic measures. With no further extensions or warnings given, the county has made it clear: the disruption will continue until Kenya Power complies and settles its mounting arrears.