Kenya Railways has warned of additional demolitions in Nairobi to clear way for a new railway line linked to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. This follows the destruction of businesses owned by Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi near Nyayo Stadium on Tuesday night. Wamatangi claims the action is politically motivated and that he received no official notice.
On the night of Tuesday, January 13, 2026, police and Kenya Railways teams raided an area near Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, demolishing several businesses along Douglas Wakiihuri Road. The destroyed properties included car yards, a car wash, a restaurant, and small commercial establishments linked to Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi. The operation occurred under heavy police guard, with officers firing shots in the air and using tear gas to intimidate those present.
Visiting the site on Wednesday morning, Wamatangi claimed the demolition was political persecution aimed at derailing his bid for the Kiambu governorship in 2027. "I began here as a small boy selling tea and mandazis and rose to establish the business that was here. What has happened is purely political and intended to silence me and intimidate me," Wamatangi said. He emphasized holding a 65-year land lease from Kenya Railways, paying rent monthly since 1994, and receiving no official notice. "I can tell you for sure that there was never even one single day of notice. If there was a notice, let them produce it," he added.
Kenya Railways confirmed plans to build a rail line from Nairobi Central Station through the Nyayo Stadium area, Kibera, to Talanta Stadium, providing safe, reliable, and affordable transport for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Matches will be held at Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, Talanta Stadium, and Nyayo National Stadium, with Nyayo serving as a training venue. The corporation stated it had issued prior notices to occupants of the railway corridor and will proceed with further demolitions without additional warning. This marks the second such exercise in the area, with destroyed properties worth millions of shillings.
Wamatangi vowed to pursue his political ambitions undeterred, committing to legal and peaceful recourse. Kenya Railways pledged to deliver an efficient transport system ahead of the tournament.
