The Role of Neighborhood and Resident Associations in Building Resilient Cities in Kenya

Episode 5 of the Series focussing on urban governance and how to get it right in managing urban growth in towns and cities in Kenya. Show guest: Engineer Geche Karanja is Chairman of Kiambu Residents and Neighbourhood Association (AKiRNA). He has worked in various locations worldwide including Germany; Brazil; South Africa; USA; Egypt and Japan.

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Listen or watch to understand:

• The role of residents' associations.
• Collaboration and partnerships between the county and residents' association in shaping the growth and development of Kiambu County.
• How to fast track collaboration.
• How effectively AKiRNA has played the role to demand plans at Neighborhood level and being the frontline compliance/ enforcement team to ensure plans are prepared and adhered to.
• How well they have been able to put local and national authorities to account for the implementation of planned infrastructure.
• How would you solve the challenges to above.
• How planners and professionals in general can participate as residents and members of residents' associations in guiding the residents in preparation of plans and adherence to the same.
• Lessons and advice for residents and neighborhood associations across the country in Kenya.
• In which areas and How residents' associations can partner with their respective governments both national and local to actively shape the growth and development of their areas.

About Peter Geche Karanja
Trained Engineer with work experience in manufacturing and Building and Construction Industry as well as experience in lecturing at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. He has worked in various locations worldwide including Germany; Brazil; South Africa; USA; Egypt and Japan.

Milestones achieved in Political Leadership:
(a) Elected Member of County Assembly representing Kahawa Sukari Ward in Kiambu County in 2013.

(b) First MCA in Kiambu County Assembly to sponsor a private members Bill that is now an Act; The Kiambu County Community and Neighbourhood Associations Promotion and Engagement Act 2016.

(c) Sponsored many motions among them the Ward Development Fund, presented a petition from residents of Kahawa Sukari.

Residents and Neighbourhood Engagement in Urban development:

(a)Through KARA participated in many initiatives and was a member of the team that helped establish Urban Boards Non-State Nominating Agencies;

(b)To advance residents and neighbourhood engagement; participated in formation and registration of Alliance of Kiambu Residents and Neighbourhood Association (AKiRNA) where he is currently the Chairman. Was also the Secretary in Kahawa Sukari Welfare Association.