Author: Lenny Kamwara

  • Kahawa Wendani in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Kahawa Wendani

    Is Kahawa Wendani a good place to live?

    Let’s take a closer look at Kahawa Wendani.

    How is life in Kahawa Wendani?

    The house rent you’ll pay here is one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, time spent commuting, food prices, water availability, and even security of the area are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like living there? This is what to expect when you relocate to Kahawa Wendani.

    Where is Kahawa Wendani located in Nairobi?

    Kahawa Wendani is located after Githurai and before Kahawa Sukari and Kenyatta University main campus along Thika Road.

    How far is Kahawa Wendani from Nairobi?

    The distance from Odeon Cinema in Nairobi to Kahawa Wendani stage is 16.1 km.

    Is Kahawa Wendani in Kiambu county?

    Yes, Kahawa Wendani is in Kiambu county.

    Where do I board matatu to Kahawa Wendani?

    The Kahawa Wendani stage in Nairobi is located at Odeon Cinema.

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Kahawa Wendani

    Ksh. 50-60  during off-peak hours.

    Ksh. 80 during rush hour.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is what your budget will look like.

    (80×2) x 5 days = 800

    800 x 4 weeks = 3,200

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 3,200 in fares per month if you decide to live in Kahawa Wendani.

    Traffic jam pain points

    The main traffic jam pain points are at Muthaiga/Pangani area and the Globe roundabout.

    In the evening, it’s the area from Allsops (GSU Headquarters) to Garden City Mall, as motorists avoid the service lane to Roasters.

    Water availability

    8 out of the 10 people I talked to said they had no water challenges. On days without supply from Kiambu Water, they get it from boreholes.

    Interestingly, even the other 2 who complained about water challenges said they get supply 3 days a week. Compared to areas I’ve visited where they get water only once a week, 3 days seems reasonable. I’m just saying.

    Food prices in Kahawa Wendani

    7/10 people I talked to said that food in Kahawa Wendani is average-priced. It’s not a wonder because Githurai market is located just about a kilometer away.

    The other 3 felt they’re usually high.

    Is Kahawa Wendani safe?

    In 2023, there was 1 case of insecurity in Kahawa Wendani reported in the media, here.

    So far in 2024, there has been 1 case of insecurity in Kahawa Wendani reported in the media.

    And what about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    6/10 of the people I talked to said Kahawa Wendani is safe.

    The other 4 identified Mama Land Road as unsafe. There have been muggings by armed thieves and even murder along this road.

    Another high-risk area in Kahawa Wendani is along Thika Road. Gangs use bodaboda to snatch mobile phones from unsuspecting passers-by.

    Business ideas

    Thinking of starting a business in Kahawa Wendani? Think of one of the following:

    •Boutique or thrift shop

    •Food joint

    •Wines and spirits

    •Water refill

    •Salon or beauty shop

    What residents love about Kahawa Wendani

    “It’s peaceful.”

    “Ideal for a family setup.”

    “High population is good for businesses.”

    What residents don’t like about Kahawa Wendani

    “Expensive house rent.”

    “Dusty, uneven feeder roads. Also muddy when it rains.”

    “Alcoholism and joblessness among the youth.”

    “Lack of fresh water.”

    Share this post with a friend who is searching for a rental house in Kahawa Wendani.

    See what life is like in its sister neighborhood, Kahawa West.

  • Ruiru in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Ruiru Town (Ruiru Ndani)

    Welcome to Ruiru, the industrial town.

    The industries located here include:

              •Angels Kenya

              •Spinners and Spinners 

              •Devki Steel Mills

              •Ruiru Mabati

              •BURN Manufacturing

    I couldn’t help but notice the town center in Ruiru resembles Nyeri town. For a moment, I thought I was in Nyeri! I don’t know why they look so similar, but maybe it’s because these two towns are agemates (developed around the same time).

    By the way, I saw the “Illuminati house of Ruiru,” where nobody has lived for close to 30 years!

    There are stories of how, after renting, voices will talk to you at night, telling you to vacate. Stories of how you will find your belongings outside, or find your utensils cleaned. Or food already cooked. Mmmh, okay…

    Only one person lives here, the watchman.

    I don’t have the picture of the house, just go Google “Illuminati house of Ruiru”. Or read about it here.

    All right. Let’s dive in.

    How far is Ruiru from Nairobi?

    The distance from Odeon Cinema in Nairobi to Ruiru is 23.9 km.

    Where do I board matatu to Ruiru?

    The Ruiru matatu stage in Nairobi is located at Odeon Cinema.

    Is Ruiru in Kiambu County?

    Yes, Ruiru is in Kiambu County.

    The postal code for Ruiru is 00232.

    Where is Ruiru Bypass located?

    Riuru Bypass is located at the intersection of Thika Road and Eastern Bypass. When coming from Nairobi through Thika Road, it’s just before you get to Ruiru town center (commonly known as Ruiru Ndani).

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Ruiru

    Ksh. 50 during off-peak hours

    Ksh. 80 during rush hour.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is what your budget will look like:

    (80×2) x 5 days = 800

    800 x 4 weeks = 3,200

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 3,200 in fare per month if you decide to live in Ruiru.

    Traffic jam pain points

    The main traffic jam pain points when heading to Nairobi CBD are Muthaiga area and Globe Roundabout.

    In the evening, you will find traffic jam from Allsops (GSU Headquarters), all the way to Garden City Mall.

    Other fares

    Fare from Ruiru to KU/Kahawa Wendani

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Ruiru to Allsops

    Ksh. 80

    Fare from Ruiru to Kahawa West

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Ruiru to Marurui

    Ksh. 70

    Fare from Ruiru to Ruaka

    Ksh. 90

    Fare from Ruiru to Kiambu

    Ksh. 60

    Fare from Ruiru to Kikuyu

    Ksh. 160

    Fare from Ruiru to Limuru

    Ksh. 160

    Fare from Ruiru to Roysambu

    Ksh. 70

    Fare from Ruiru to Thika

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Ruiru to Gatundu

    Ksh. 80

    Fare from Ruiru to Kibichoi

    Ksh. 100

    Fare from Ruiru to Juja

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Ruiru to Githunguri

    Ksh. 80-100

    Water availability

    7 out of the 10 people I talked to said they had no water challenges.

    The other 3 said they buy borehole water at Ksh. 5 or 10 per 20-liter jerrican.

    Food prices in Ruiru

    8/10 of the people I talked to said that food prices in Ruiru market are average. 2 said they are low.

    Verdict: I visited the market, checked the prices and I can confirm food here is cheap.

    Is Ruiru safe?

    So far in 2024, there have been 3 cases of insecurity in Ruiru reported in the media here, here, and here.

    And what about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    7 of the 10 people I talked to said Ruiru town is safe. I was told it’s almost 5 years since they had serious cases of insecurity. The only ones left are petty mobile phone thieves.

    Business opportunities

    Thinking of starting a business in Ruiru? Consider one of these:

    •In the town center, mobile phone shop

    •Shoes or clothes thrift shop

    •Food joint (Chips palace, kibanda).

    •Pub, wines and spirits.

    •Mutura joint.

    What residents love about Ruiru

    “High population is good for business.”

    “Cheap food in the market.”

    “Life is affordable.”

    “Good weather.”

    What residents don’t like about Ruiru

    “Wataalam Road is dirty. Dirty trenches and dirty road.”

    “Insecurity along Wataalam Road. Unsafe at night.”

    “Noise pollution by promotion caravans and motorbikes.”

    “Frequent power blackouts.”

    “Water challenges.”

    “Poor leadership.”

    Send this post’s link to a friend who wants to relocate to Ruiru.

    Check out what business opportunities you can exploit in Ruiru Bypass.

  • Kahawa West in 2025: Business Ideas & What You Should Expect to Find When You Relocate

    Kahawa West, Nairobi

    Before I start this post, safety first.

    There is a black spot in Kahawa West. It’s the road that drops down from the roundabout towards Githurai 44, near Laphila carwash.

    This road is the Northern Bypass. Many accidents have occurred here.

    Blackspot near Laphila in Kahawa West
    Blackspot near Laphila in Kahawa West

    Motorists and pedestrians alike, please be careful when you’re on this stretch of road.

    All right, let’s dive straight in. If you’re looking for a single room, bedsitter, 1 (one), 2 (two), or 3 (three) bedroom house in Kahawa West, or you want to put up a business here, read this first.

    Is Kahawa West a good place to live?

    Let’s take a closer look at Kahawa West.

    How is life in Kahawa West?

    Because the house rent you’ll pay here is just one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, time spent commuting, food prices, water availability, and even security of the area are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like staying here? This is what to expect when you relocate to Kahawa West.

    Where is Kahawa West located?

    When coming from Nairobi CBD, Kahawa West is located along Kamiti Road after Zimmerman and Githurai 45.

    You can also get there using the Northern Bypass from Marurui/Thome or from Membley along the Eastern Bypass.

    Is Kahawa West in Kiambu County?

    No. Kahawa West is in Nairobi County.

    How far is Kahawa West from Nairobi CBD?

    The distance from Odeon Cinema in Nairobi to Kahawa West roundabout is 16.4 km.

    Where do I board matatu to Kahawa West?

    The Kahawa West matatu stage in Nairobi is located at Odeon Cinema.

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Kahawa West

    Ksh. 50-70 during off-peak hours

    Ksh. 100 during morning rush hour; Ksh. 80 in the evening rush hour from Nairobi CBD.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and return in the evening, this is your budget:

    180 x 5 days = 900

    900 x 4 weeks = 3,600

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 3,600 in fares per month if you decide to live in Kahawa West.

    Traffic jam pain points

    The main traffic jam pain point when going to Kahawa West is the stretch between Allsops and Garden City Mall in the evening, and along Kamiti Road after TRM (Thika Road Mall).

    When getting to town, it’s at Muthaiga and Globe Roundabout.

    Other fares

    Fare from Kahawa West to Bypass

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Kahawa West to Githurai 45

    Ksh.50

    Fare from Kahawa West to Marurui

    Ksh. 30

    Fare from Kahawa West to Ruaka

    Ksh. 50-70

    Fare from Kahawa West to Ruiru

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Kahawa West to Wangige

    Ksh. 100

    Fare from Kahawa West to Kikuyu

    Ksh. 120-130

    Water availability

    8 of the 10 people I talked to said they have no water problem.

    The other 2 said they get water only once a week, and that is on Fridays.

    Food prices in Kahawa West

    9 of the 10 people I talked to said that food prices in Kahawa West are average.

    They told me if they want cheap food they get it from Githurai, a walking distance from Kahawa West roundabout.

    Is Kahawa West safe?

    The media reported at least five cases of insecurity in Kahawa West in 2023, with coverage seen here, here, here, here, and here.

    So far in 2024, there is one. Read about it here.

    And what about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    7/10 of the people I talked to said Kahawa West is safe. The remaining 3 said there were a few cases of theft.

    They identified Kware, Soweto, and the lower side of Kamae as high-risk areas.

    Verdict: Kahawa West is safe.

    What residents love about Kahawa West

    “Good security.”

    “Plenty of water.”

    “Food is affordable.”

    “Sufficient street lighting.”

    What residents don’t like about Kahawa West

    “Hiked fares to town.”

    “Inner roads not paved. Inaccessible when it rains.”

    “Blackspot near LaPhilla.”

    “Expensive rents for shops along the main road.”

    “Buyers don’t have strong purchasing power.”

    “Old model houses.”

    Business ideas

    Before I give you some business ideas for Kahawa West, there is something you need to know.

    When you get here, you may think this is a high-end town. You know, Kahawa West.

    Now, this is a town for “hustlers”. The upper class who live here don’t usually shop here.

    So lower your expectations. Yes, there is a high population, but their purchasing power is not that high. Don’t start with high prices, do your research about your competitors’ pricing.

    There is high competition among business owners. Everyone has their price. There is no pricing harmony.

    All in all, be patient.

    If you’re thinking of setting up a business in Kahawa West, set up one of these:

    •Kibanda ya groceries

    •Nduthi (Motorcycle)

    •Butchery

    •Pub, wines & spirits

    •Malimali

  • Mwiki in 2025: Business Ideas & What You Should Expect to Find When You Relocate

    Mwiki, Nairobi

    “No, there is no bank here. Only agents. Equity, Co-operative, and Unaitas banks are in Kasarani.”

    I saw a comment from a Facebook user saying, “Kama umeshindwa na maisha ya Mwiki,wee tu rudi ushago.” (If life in Mwiki is hard for you, then just go back to the countryside.)

    And I thought “Wow! Then life in Mwiki must be really cheap.”

    But is it?

    I went to find out, and I have the answers.

    I went to Hunters, Sunton, then to the end of town at Mwiki Railway Station, and this is what I found out.

    One thing I noticed about Mwiki is that there has been a deliberate effort to tarmac roads. Only 3 main roads have not been tarmacked or at least cabro-paved.

    What Mwiki lacks is a market complex. The main market consists of vendors lined along ACK Road.

    Here are the other details. If you’re looking for a single room, double room, bedsitter, 1 (one), 2 (two), or 3 (three) bedroom house in Mwiki, or you want to put up a business here, this is for you.

    How far is Mwiki from Nairobi CBD?

    The distance from Imenti House in Nairobi to Mwiki via Thika Road and Mwiki Road is 16.6 km

    Where do I board matatu to Mwiki?

    The Mwiki matatu stage in Nairobi is located along Tom Mboya Street near Imenti House.

    You can also board downtown Nairobi along Racecourse Road, opposite Nairobi City Council offices.

    The bus fares downtown are cheaper by Ksh. 10-20 compared to what you’ll pay at the Imenti House stage.

    But again, the walk to downtown is a significant distance.

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Mwiki

    Ksh. 40-60 during off-peak hours

    Ksh. 100 during rush hour.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is how your budget will look like:

    (100×2) x 5 days = 1,000

    1000 x 4 weeks = 4,000

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 4,000 in fares per month if you decide to live in Mwiki.

    Traffic jam pain points

    The main traffic jam pain points when getting to town are Muthaiga/ Pangani area and Globe Roundabout.

    You will also experience slow-moving traffic from Allsops to Garden City Mall in the evening. And then from Hunters to Mwiki.

    The traffic police along Mwiki Road usually do a good job of decongesting the jams.

    Other Fares

    Fare from Mwiki to Githurai

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Mwiki to Chokaa

    Ksh. 60

    Fare from Mwiki to Chokaa

    Ksh. 40

    Fare from Mwiki to Bypass

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Mwiki to Benedicta

    Ksh. 70

    Fare from Mwiki to Utawala

    Ksh. 80

    Fare from Mwiki to MC

    Ksh. 100

    Fare from Mwiki to Airways

    Ksh. 100

    Let’s start with Hunters.

    Life in Hunters

    Water availability

    No, there is no water problem here in Hunters.

    All those I talked to said they had water throughout.

    Food prices in Hunters

    7 of the 10 people I talked to said food prices here are average.

    3 said they’re high.

    Verdict: Food here is reasonably priced, though not as cheap as it is in Mwiki.

    Is Hunters safe?

    All the 10 people I talked to said Hunters is safe. The main road plus the streets/courts that branch from it, all are safe.

    The courts are usually gated with a watchman manning them day and night.

    The only area they identified as unsafe is the stage area along Mwiki Road, near the dumpsite.

    Life in Sunton

    A few meters down the road, you get to Sunton.

    Water availability

    9 of the 10 people I talked to said water is not a problem.

    Verdict: You are unlikely to face water challenges here at Sunton.

    Food prices in Sunton

    6 of the 10 interviewees said food prices are average.

    3 said they’re high.

    1 said they’re low.

    Is Sunton safe?

    In 2023, there was 1 case of insecurity in Sunton reported in the media here.

    So far in 2024, there’s none.

    And what about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    All 10 people I talked to said Sunton is safe, apart from a few isolated cases.

    When I asked which part of Sunton is unsafe, they all said, “Nahuko chini.” Or, “Ukivuka mto.”

    Curious, I crossed the small river they talked about. I found out “Nahuko chini” actually has a name, and it’s called Chieko (Ciiko).

    They all said this place has many cases of theft.

    Verdict: Careful with the Chieko area.

    And now towards the end of town, we get to Mwiki.

    Life in Mwiki

    Water availability

    10/10 of the people I talked to said they have no water problem.

    They said it’s only a day or two a week that they don’t have a water supply.

    Food prices in Mwiki

    The guy who said life in Mwiki was cheap was right. Here, again, all the 10 people I talked to said market food prices are low. They actually used the words “affordably low.”

    Is Mwiki safe?

    7 out of the 10 people I talked to said Mwiki is safe. They, however, identified Maisa, ACK Road from Street 14 onwards, Dambaki, Red Soil Road, and the lower part of Catholic Road as areas with the highest insecurity.

    Verdict: The areas near the main road (Mwiki Road) are secure. As you move towards the interior areas, insecurity grows. Be careful with the above risk areas, especially at night (from 9 pm).

    If you are running a business be on the lookout for thieves who masquerade as customers. They come to your shop pretending to buy. One of them distracts you with questions as others steal, mostly your phone.

    The shocking thing is that these thieves are usually young women who also carry children to appear innocent.

    Also, avoid using your phone at night after alighting a matatu. The illuminated screen can be seen from a mile away.

    There has been at least one case of insecurity in 2024 reported in the media. Read it here.

    In 2023, there was at least three cases. Read them here, here, and here.

    What residents love about Mwiki

    “Affordable life.”

    “Affordable rental houses.”

    “No water challenges.”

    “Peaceful even during political demonstrations.”

    “Businesses pick very fast.”

    What residents don’t like about Mwiki

    “Alcoholism. There are more pubs than churches.”

    “High fare prices.”

    “Traffic jam along Mwiki Road.”

    “Unfinished inner roads are very dusty.”

    “Noise pollution by matatus (for those with businesses touching Mwiki Road)”

    “Pockets of insecurity.”

    Business ideas

    If you’re thinking of setting up a business in Mwiki, think of the following:

    •Grocery (mama mboga) or a chips, chapati, mandazi, mutura joint

    •Mitumba clothes

    •Mali mali (small trader)

    •Beauty shop

    All right! That is what you expect to find when you relocate to Mwiki. Send the link to this post to a friend who is looking for a house in Maternity, Hunters, Sunton, or Mwiki.

    Discover the locations where you can find affordable rental houses in Kasarani.

  • Thika Road: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Thika Road

    Rental houses along Thika Road

    These are places you’ll find rental houses along Thika Road:

  • Mirema Drive in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Mirema Drive, Nairobi

    Is Mirema a good place to live?

    Let’s take a closer look at Mirema.

    What is life in Mirema like?

    The rent you’ll pay is one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, time spent commuting, food prices, water availability, and even security are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like living there? This is what to expect when you relocate to Mirema.

    Where do I board matatu to Mirema?

    The Mirema matatu stage in Nairobi is located at Imenti Houses along Tom Mboya Street.

    How far is Mirema from Nairobi?

    The distance from Imenti House to Mirema is 14.6km.

    Where is Mirema located?

    Mirema is located on the opposite side of Zimmerman, along Kamiti Road.

    You can also access it through the Northern bypass from Marurui/Thome.

    Where is Mirema Drive?

    Mirema Drive starts at Khetia’s supermarket along Kamiti Road and goes all the way to Northern Bypass in Marurui/Thome.

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Mirema

    Ksh. 50 during off-peak hours

    Ksh. 70 during rush hour.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is how your budget will look like:

    (70×2) x 5 days = 700

    700 x 4 weeks = 2,800

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 2,800 in fare per month if you decide to live in Mirema.

    Traffic jam pain points

    The main traffic pain points are Muthaiga area, Globe roundabout, and along Kamiti Road after TRM.

    There is also usually a traffic jam from Allsops (GSU Headquarters) to Garden City Mall in the evening.

    Water availability

    Water is NOT a problem in Mirema. The residents I talked to said water is available throughout.

    Food prices in Mirema

    7 of the 10 residents I talked to along Mirema Drive said food prices here are high.

    The other 3 said they’re average-priced.

    Is Mirema safe?

    So far in 2024, there have been 0 cases of insecurity in Mirema reported in the media.

    Last year (2023) had many cases of insecurity. Read about one here.

    And what about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    They said that inside the estate it’s safe. You only need to be careful along Mirema Drive, especially the drop to Zimmerman at night.

    Mirema drop to Zimmerman
    Mirema drop to Zimmerman

    They attributed the cases of theft to the lack of a police station. The nearest police station is in Kasarani. The next nearest one is in Marurui.

    Someone also mentioned the theft of car parts.

    Why residents love Mirema

    “Sherehe (partying).”

    “It’s secure inside the estates. You can walk in at 3 a.m.”

    “It’s growing so it’s good for business.”

    “Proximity to USIU.”

    What residents don’t like about Mirema

    “Roads are in bad condition. Inside the estate it’s dusty.”

    “Usherati (bad behaviour).”

    “A lot of noise, especially on weekends.”

    “Not a good place to raise a family.”

    Business ideas

    Thinking of starting a business on Mirema Drive?

    Mirema Drive is a party hotspot.

    Revellers have a wide range of choices, from Attic Lounge, Paris, Alton Lounge, Tessara Bistro, One Percent Lounge, 2liza Gardens, Blow Hub, to Ambience Lounge.

    Consider setting up any of the following:

    •Liquor store

    •Airbnb

    •Boutique

    •Salon or barber shop

    •Laundromat

    Check out posts for Kasarani and Maternity Kasarani.

  • Zimmerman in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Zimmerman, Nairobi

    This post covers the Zimmerman area between KPLC Substation and Base Road.

    Here’s what I mean.

    Zimmerman upto Base Road illustrated

    Is Zimmerman a good place to live?

    So now, let’s take a closer look at Zimmerman.

    How is life in Zimmerman?

    The rent you’ll pay is one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, time spent commuting, food prices, water availability, and even security of the area are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like living there? This is what to expect when you relocate to Zimmerman.

    Where is Zimmerman in Nairobi?

    Zimmerman is sandwiched between Thika Road and Kamiti Road. It stretches from TRM (Thika Road Mall), all the way to Githurai.

    How far is Zimmerman from Nairobi?

    The distance from Imenti House to Zimmerman is 13.7 Km.

    Where do I board matatu to Zimmerman?

    The Zimmerman stage in Nairobi is located at Imenti House along Tom Mboya Street.

    You can also board the buses along Ronald Ngara Street. FYI, these are the cheapest options for getting to Zimmerman.

    Fare from Nairobi Town to Zimmerman

    Ksh. 20-50 during off-peak hours. Yes, 20 bob.

    Ksh. 70 during rush hour.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is what your budget will look like:

    (70×2) x 5 days = 700

    700 x 4 weeks = 2,800

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 2,800 in fares per month if you decide to live in Zimmerman.

    Traffic jam pain points

    The main traffic pain points are Muthaiga/Pangani area, and Globe roundabout if you’re heading to the CBD.

    Then from Allsops to Garden City Mall in the evening and along Kamiti Road after TRM.

    Other Fares

    Fare from Zimmerman to Kahawa West

    Ksh. 50

    Remember, this guide covers the area between KPLC substation and Base Road.

    Water availability

    Water availability in Zimmerman has improved. Note that I haven’t said there is no water challenge. It’s just better compared to previous years.

    8 out of the 10 people I talked to on the upper side of Base Road said they have no water problem.

    They have water almost throughout. The only days they don’t have water are Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

    One thing, though, is some buildings don’t have a water pump. People who stay on the upper floors suffer because the ordinary water pressure is not strong enough to reach them.

    They have to fetch water on the ground floor. And when it cuts out, it suddenly leaves them high and dry.

    And most of the older buildings don’t have storage tanks. Buy a 210-litre tank in case you find yourself in such a building.

    Market food prices in Zimmerman

    8 of the 10 people I talked to said that food prices in Zimmerman are average. 

    2 felt they were high.

    However, they all agreed that it’s cheaper to shop at the nearby Githurai market.

    Is Zimmerman safe?

    In 2023, there were at least 2 cases of insecurity in Zimmerman reported in the media, here, and here.

    So far in 2024, there has been one. Read it here.

    What about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    9 of the 10 people I talked to said the upper side of Zimmerman is safe. That’s the area around Cooperative and the immediate surrounding area.

    They said security is not good as you go downtown. Residents have witnessed a few cases of muggings.

    What residents love about Zimmerman

    “Affordable life.”

    “Cheap fares.”

    “Accommodates both middle and lower class.”

    “Good affordable schools.”

    “High population is good for business.”

    “For young people, it’s the best place to start an independent life.”

    What residents don’t like about Zimmerman

    “Bad drainage system.”

    “Flooding when it rains.”

    “Bad inner roads.”

    “Frequent power blackouts.”

    Business ideas

    If you’re thinking about setting up a business in Zimmerman, think of one of the following:

    •Grocery store (kibanda). This big, big population gotta eat.

    •Salon or barber shop

    •Pub, wines and spirits.

    •Clothes shop

    •Retail shop on the ground floors of apartments.

    I will keep updating this post, in the meantime check out Rental houses in Kasarani.

  • Ruai in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Ruai

    Before we dive into places where you’ll find affordable rental houses, let’s take a closer look at Ruai.

    What is it like living in Ruai?

    Because the rent you’ll pay is one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, time spent commuting, food prices, water availability, and even security of the area are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like living there? This is what to expect when you relocate to Ruai.

    Where is Ruai in Nairobi?

    Ruai is located along Kangundo Road, after Komarock, Kayole, and Njiru.

    The postal code for Ruai is 00520.

    How far is Ruai from Nairobi?

    The distance from Bus station near Afya Center to Ruai Equity via Eastern Bypass is 26 km.

    Where do I board matatu to Ruai?

    The Ruai stage in Nairobi is located at Bus Station near Afya Center.

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Ruai

    Ksh. 100 during off-peak hours.

    Ksh. 120 during rush hour.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is what your budget will look like:

    (120×2) x 5 days = 1,200

    1,200 x 4 weeks = 4,800

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 4,800 in fares per month if you decide to live in Ruai.

    Quite pricey.

    Traffic jam pain points

    The main traffic jam pain point is the Muthurwa market area.

    Other fares at Ruai Bypass stage

    These are the current fares at Ruai Bypass matatu stage.

    Matatu fares at Ruai Bypass stage

    Fare from Ruai to Githurai

    Ksh. 80

    Fare from Ruai to KU

    Ksh. 80

    Fare from Ruai to Kahawa

    Ksh. 80

    Fare from Ruai to Koma

    Ksh. 250

    Fare from Ruai to Tala

    Ksh. 250

    Fare from Ruai to Kenol

    Ksh. 250

    Fare from Ruai to Sabasaba

    Ksh. 250

    Fare from Ruai to Murang’a

    Ksh. 300

    Fare from Ruai to Sagana

    Ksh. 400

    Fare from Ruai to Kangema

    Ksh. 400

    Fare from Ruai to Karatina

    Ksh. 450

    Fare from Ruai to Nyeri

    Ksh. 500

    Water availability

    Now, now, now… Ruai has a serious water problem.

    6 out of the 10 people I talked to said they receive water only once a week. If lucky twice a week. That is the County Government water.

    The other days they buy borehole water at Ksh. 15-20 per 20-litre jerrican.

    The remaining 4 said they had water throughout, but it’s borehole water. And it’s salty.

    That means they have to buy drinking water. Refilling a 10-litre jerrican with fresh drinking water costs Ksh.50.

    Food prices in Ruai

    7/10 people I talked to said that food prices in Ruai are average.

    3 said they are high compared to the nearby markets.

    Is Ruai safe?

    In 2023, there was 2 cases of insecurity in Ruai reported in the media here, and here.

    So far in 2024, there have been at least four, here, here, here, and here.

    And what about unreported cases?

    I talked to the residents.

    8 of the 10 of the people I talked to said the area is secure.

    Verdict: Security in Ruai in 2024 has improved. Residents have made local arrangements to have security guards man the area.

    Be careful at night in those narrow, poorly lit corridors at the town center.

    Why residents love Ruai

    “Good security.”

    “Not densely populated.”

    “Good for raising up a family.”

    “Peaceful, even during political upheavals.”

    “Affordable houses.”

    What residents don’t like about Ruai

    “Hot weather. Very hot during the day.”

    “Water challenges.”

    “Borehole water is salty.”

    “Lack of a market complex.”

    “Lack of City Council sanitation block.”

    “Bad drainage system.”

    Business ideas

    If you are thinking of setting up a business in Ruai, think of the following:

    •Fresh water refill

    •Green grocery store

    •Cereals shop

    •Hardware

    •Pub

    •Mitumba clothes

    Ruai outlook: 2024 and beyond

    It’s good that Kangundo Road in Ruai is being expanded, although it has created a problem– the market has been pushed to the side.

    Ruai in 2024

    Traders are not happy. They want a market constructed for them. And public ablution blocks.

    Most residents live on the upper side of the town along Kangundo Road. The buildings here are squeezed and there is poor drainage. Dark sludgy water flows down to roadside trenches.

    Ruai could be better if the water challenge is addressed. Almost everyone I talked to complained about water availability.

    Send this post’s link to a friend searching for a rental house in Ruai.

  • Mountain View in 2025: Rental Houses, Business Ideas & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Mountain View

    Is Mountain View a nice place to live?

    Before diving into places where you’ll find affordable rental houses, let’s take a closer look at Mountain View.

    How is life in Mountain View?

    The rent you’ll pay is one piece of the puzzle.

    Daily fare, time spent commuting, food prices, water availability, and even security of the area are other factors you should consider.

    So what is it like living there? This is what to expect when you relocate to Mountain View.

    Where do I board matatu to Mountain View?

    The Mountain View stage in Nairobi is located at Super Metro stage near Kenya National Archives.

    You can also board at the lower side of Latema Road near River Road.

    How far is Mountain View from Nairobi?

    The distance from Kenya National Archives to Mountain View is 11.7 km.

    Where is Mountain View Estate in Nairobi?

    Mountain View Estate is located along Waiyaki Way after Westlands and Kangemi.

    Fare from Nairobi CBD to Mountain View

    Ksh. 30-50  during off-peak hours

    Ksh. 60-70 during rush hour.

    Let’s do the math. If you commute daily to town in the morning and get back in the evening, this is what your budget will look like:

    (70×2) x 5 days = 700

    700 x 4 weeks = 2,800

    In addition to rent, you’ll spend approximately Ksh. 2,800 in fare per month if you decide to live in Mountain View.

    Traffic jam pain points

    You will experience brief traffic as you leave town to join Waiyaki Way, just before Westlands.

    There is also a traffic jam at Kangemi Bridge in the evening.

    Other fares

    These are the fares from the matatu stage at the nearby Kangemi market.

    Fare from Mountain View to Kikuyu

    Ksh. 50

    Fare from Mountain View to Limuru

    Ksh. 100

    Fare from Mountain View to Naivasha

    Ksh. 300

    Fare from Mountain View to Nakuru

    Ksh. 500

    Fare from Mountain View to Nyahururu

    Ksh. 600

    Fare from Mountain View to Eldoret

    Ksh. 1,200

    Fare from Mountain View to Kitale

    Ksh. 1,200

    Fare from Mountain View to Kisii

    Ksh. 1,200

    Water availability

    Remember, we are talking about the area around Mountain View, not inside the estate.

    Residents told me that water was a challenge in 2023 due to many road constructions that interfered with water pipes.

    Only 4 out of 10 people I talked to in 2024 said they had water challenges.

    They said they only receive water 2 times a week.

    When it’s not available, they buy a 20-liter jerrican at… hear this… 40 bob! Sometimes it goes for 50 shillings!

    Residents also complained that during the Nairobi Show, they hardly have any water because all water is channeled to the showground. How true is this?

    Food prices in Mountain View

    6 of the 10 people I talked to said that food prices in Mountain View Estate are average.

    3 said they are low.

    Only one said they’re high.

    I could confirm that food commodities at the nearby Kangemi market were really cheap.

    Is Mountain View safe?

    In 2023, there were many cases of insecurity around Mountain View reported in the media, one of them here.

    So far in 2024, there is one.

    And what about unreported cases?

    For the unreported cases, I talked to the residents.

    6 of the 10 of the people I talked to said that there are bodaboda gangs that snatch mobile phones from people.

    They also said that during the political demonstrations (maandamano) of 2023 there were many cases of theft from protesters.

    But I was told in the consequent maandamano, the protesters were barricaded from reaching Kangemi.

    Be careful with the following areas, especially at night: Thiong’o, Dallas, Barabara ya carwash, Kangemi flyover, Dam.

    The gated Mountain View estate is safe.

    Why residents love Mountain View

    “Affordable food prices.”

    “It’s touching Waiyaki Way. Easy access.”

    “Cheap fares to Nairobi CBD.”

    “Cabro-paved roads.”

    What residents don’t like about Mountain View

    “Expensive house rents.”

    “Most houses ni za mabati.”

    “The market area at Kangemi is too muddy when it rains.”

    “No proper planning of the town.”

    “Youth lost in alcoholism.”

    Business ideas

    If you’re thinking of setting up a business in Mountain View, think of:

    •Duka (small shop)

    •Hotel

    •Mitumba clothes and shoes

    •M-Pesa

    •Pub

    •Bodaboda

    •Kibanda

    Most houses here are behind closed gates, showing they are serious about security.

    Mountain View outlook: 2025 and beyond

    Most affordable houses around Mountain View are mabati houses. And they’re not cheap.

    A mabati single room goes for Ksh. 4,500. In other places that’s a bedsitter.

    So why don’t the owners build modern stone houses? It’s the same problem I found in Uthiru.

    Those working in Westlands, Loresho, and Lavington prefer to stay in Mountain View.

    When demand for houses rose, the landlords simply increased the rents, and they continued to do so every year.

    Few are interested in building stone houses.

    When I asked why the owners don’t get a loan from commercial banks to put up one, I was told they fear “watanyang’anywa title deed” (they may lose the title to the bank).

    Probably they’ve seen one such case (they do happen when you fail to pay the loan) so they may be justified to say so.

    Then there are pieces of land that you find the owner has simply refused to develop.

    What do you think will help Kangemi modernize? Let me know.

    Check out rental houses in Uthiru.

  • Waiyaki Way: Rental Houses & What to Expect When You Relocate

    Waiyaki Way

    Rental Houses Along Waiyaki Way

    I’m going to cover these areas: Mountain View, Uthiru, and Kinoo.