Kisumu Plans Las Vegas-Style Transformation for Kondele in Urban Renewal Strategy

Kisumu is embarking on an ambitious urban renewal project, with Kondele slated to become a vibrant entertainment and business district, echoing the energy of Las Vegas. 

This initiative, a cornerstone of the Kisumu City Growth Node Action Plan, aims to reshape the city's identity, stimulate economic growth, reinforce climate resilience, and strengthen institutional capacity. Kondele, known for its bustling street life, is one of five key expansion nodes identified in the plan, alongside the Kisumu Lakefront, Nyamasaria, Kisian, and Kibos. 

The proposed development envisions a diverse mix of residential, retail, leisure, and economic spaces, aiming to bolster Kisumu’s position as a commercial hub for Western Kenya and the Lake Victoria Basin. As decentralisation efforts and traffic regulation lead to a quieter city centre at night, peripheral areas like Kondele have absorbed the nocturnal activity, housing late-night supermarkets, clubs, hotels, and other essential services.

The growth strategy aligns with broader infrastructural reforms, including the relocation of informal traders and the rerouting of heavy traffic to alleviate congestion in the city core. While these measures have reduced activity downtown, peripheral areas such as Kondele and Nyamasaria are emerging as hubs of social and commercial interaction.

Simultaneously, the Kisumu Lakefront Node is being transformed into a tourism destination. The Kisumu Lakefront Development Corporation is developing a 46-kilometre waterfront promenade, marine terminals, public beaches, and recreational parks. A £600,000 grant from the African Development Bank’s Urban and Municipal Development Fund is financing the initial feasibility phase, which Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o describes as pivotal in attracting investment.

However, the revitalisation efforts have prompted calls for careful planning. The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) has urged the integration of professional input to protect existing livelihoods and urban heritage.

"Kisumu City has a chance to pursue a different model of growth. The future is urban and we must shape it with professional input," AAK Secretary Ruth Wanjiku said during the launch of the body’s regional office.