MOMBASA, Kenya — Mombasa County Government has unveiled plans for an ambitious Sh70 million facelift of the iconic Uhuru Gardens, promising to transform the historic public space into a modern recreational and tourism hub.
Dubbed “Uhuru Gardens 2.0,” the project is expected to introduce a range of new amenities including family picnic zones, a children’s play park, outdoor gym facilities, running and walking tracks, an amphitheatre, a tourist information centre, modern washrooms, and enhanced landscaping.
County officials say the redevelopment is aimed at creating a greener, more inclusive and vibrant public space capable of serving families, fitness enthusiasts, cultural groups, tourists and residents alike.
The planned makeover, however, comes amid growing concerns from environmentalists and human rights defenders who have previously criticised the county government over the felling of trees within the gardens.
Environmental conservation groups have warned that some of the trees found within Uhuru Gardens are estimated to be more than three decades old and serve as important habitats for various bird species that have long thrived within the green oasis in the heart of Mombasa city.
The concerns have reignited debate over the future of one of the county’s most recognisable public parks, with conservationists calling for transparency on how the redevelopment will affect the botanical and ecological character of the gardens.
While the county government has promised enhanced landscaping and beautification, it remains unclear whether the planned modifications will preserve the existing tree cover and biodiversity that have defined Uhuru Gardens for decades.
For many residents, Uhuru Gardens is more than just a recreational space. The park has historically served as a gathering point for public events, family outings, civic activities and cultural celebrations, while providing one of the few expansive green spaces within Mombasa’s busy urban centre.
Human rights defenders have previously questioned the removal of mature trees from public spaces across the county, arguing that urban development projects should not come at the expense of environmental conservation.
The latest redevelopment plan is expected to attract public scrutiny as stakeholders seek assurances that modernisation efforts will strike a balance between infrastructure improvement and preservation of the park’s environmental heritage.
Once completed, county officials say the revamped Uhuru Gardens will become a premier destination park offering recreation, wellness, entertainment and tourism services in the heart of the coastal city.
The county government is yet to provide detailed information on the number of trees that may be affected by the redevelopment works and the measures that will be put in place to protect existing biodiversity during implementation of the project.
