The City of Kisumu has ordered businesses and individuals to obtain approval before installing or occupying shipping containers for commercial use, warning that structures placed illegally on public land could be removed.
In a public notice dated 12 October 2026, Acting City Manager Fred Mariwa said all shipping containers installed within the city would be treated as regulated developments and would require approval from the city authorities.
The notice prohibits the placement of containers on pedestrian walkways, road reserves, drainage channels and public utility corridors.
Owners of existing containers that obstruct pedestrian movement, pose a risk to public safety or encroach on public spaces have been directed to remove them immediately.
Mariwa warned that the city would take enforcement action, including removing structures that do not comply with the regulations.
All applications and enquiries relating to container installations are to be submitted to the City Manager’s office.
The announcement comes as the city administration outlines plans to improve infrastructure and service delivery.
Mariwa said the city was working to improve street lighting along major roads in the central business district (CBD) and in surrounding residential estates.
The second phase of the Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) project, which began about 60 days before the announcement, is also under way in areas including Lumumba, Makasembo, Mamba and Moi Stadium.
The acting city manager said the project would be completed within the stipulated timeframe.
The administration has also pledged to improve rubbish collection in the CBD and residential estates.
The measures are intended to improve urban planning, public safety and the management of public spaces.
Businesses and individuals affected by the new rules have been urged to comply with the requirements.
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