In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…
- Juliani’s Dandora Hip Hop Centre, a community hub for youth and women in Nairobi, has been demolished as part of the government’s effort to reclaim riparian land.
- The demolition, part of a broader initiative following deadly floods, has faced criticism for disproportionately targeting informal settlements while sparing affluent neighborhoods.
Juliani, the renowned singer whose real name is Julius Owino, has expressed deep sorrow over the demolition of his cherished Dandora Hip Hop Centre.
The centre, a beacon for youth and women in Nairobi to cultivate and showcase their talents, was recently razed in the government’s ongoing efforts to reclaim riparian land.
Juliani shared his anguish through a video clip depicting bulldozers dismantling the two-storey facility.
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Despite his relentless efforts to prevent this outcome, the government proceeded with the demolition, leaving him heartbroken. Reflecting on the loss, he conveyed his pain and the thwarted plans for expansion and upgrades.
“This is not the end but inauma sana! To think that we were working on expanding to the neighbouring spaces and upgrading the facility,” he lamented.
Prior to the demolition, Juliani had alerted his fans about the impending threat, urging them to support him during these challenging times.
“Gotten word that our community centre, Dandora Hip Hop City is being demolished. The whole 2 storey building. Yes, it’s close to a river. We purchased the building more than 7 years ago,” he announced.
The demolition is part of a broader government initiative to reclaim riparian zones and relocate residents away from rivers, especially following recent floods that claimed hundreds of lives, predominantly in slum areas.
This campaign has sparked diverse reactions across the nation. Some Kenyans and political leaders have condemned the demolitions, labeling them as unjust, particularly against informal settlements.
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Eugene Wamalwa of Azimio la Umoja questioned the government’s motives, highlighting the disparity in enforcement.
He criticized the administration for not targeting affluent neighborhoods like Runda, where some properties also encroach on riparian land. Wamalwa accused the government of targeting the poor while sparing the wealthy.