Makadara

Makadara is a residential and commercial neighbourhood situated in the eastern part of Nairobi, Kenya. It lies approximately 5 kilometres east of Nairobi’s central business district and is bounded by the Nairobi Airport to the north, the Thika Highway to the west, and the Makadara Estate to the south. The area falls within the Nairobi County administrative region and is part of the larger Eastlands area.

The neighbourhood developed rapidly in the 1960s and 1970s as part of Nairobi’s suburban expansion. During that period it was established as a housing estate for people migrating from rural areas, and today its population is diverse, comprising a mix of working‑class families, professionals, and informal sector workers. Census data indicate a growing population, with the area’s density increasing as new residential developments appear.

Makadara hosts a number of educational institutions, including the Makadara Primary School and the nearby St. Mary’s School. The community also has several health facilities, such as the Makadara Community Health Clinic, which provides primary care to residents. Commerce in the neighbourhood ranges from small-scale retail shops to larger marketplaces; one of the most well known is the Makadara Night Market, which attracts traders and visitors from around the city. The area has a notable sports presence with the Nairobi Recreation Centre providing facilities for football and other recreational activities.

Transport links are robust. The main artery is the Thika Highway, providing direct access to Nairobi’s central business district and the Thika region. Public bus routes and mini‑buses operate frequently, making commutes convenient. Additionally, the Nairobi Metrobus green line services the region, supporting connectivity to other parts of the city.

Makadara’s urban character is complemented by its proximity to Nairobi Airport, which offers both domestic and limited international air service. The neighbourhood continues to evolve, balancing its residential roots with increasing commercial growth and infrastructural development.