A government building in Nairobi CBD has received a facelift in the wake of an order by the Nairobi Metropolitan Service (NMS) to have all city buildings repainted.
The ExTelecoms House along Haile Selassie Avenue was turned into a canvas by artists who found a unique way of playing with its architecutural design, marrying it with the techniques and elements of street art.
Some of the features which stood out were the silhouette of a woman wearing a traditional necklace, a giraffe, constuction workers, and fishermen in a boat.
The other faces of the building which hosts the Privatization Commission offices are being worked on to provide a new lease of life into the formerly cream-coloured building.
The NMS launched a spririted beautification program with the upgrade of various streets, footpaths and recreational centres.
On July, 2020, building owners were given a 60-day deadline to repaint their properties failure to which action would be taken against them.
Towards the end of September, NMS emphasised the need to change the aesthetic appearance of the CBD to make it more attractive and safe.
"Are you a commercial or building owner? Have you painted your building as per the notice anchored in law and requirements of the Public Health Cap 242 on maintaining healthy and quality standards of general public health?," NMS reiterated in a tweet.
Painting is part of the greater grand plan to transform the city and its environs including creation and rehabilitation of more green spaces such as the Michuki Park, and the Arboretum.
Colourful and attractive buildings together with pedestrian-oriented streets will contribute to the achievement of unique street themes and beautification.
Landscaping of building frontages, road reserves, islands and roundabouts is also underway.
In December 2019, artists from different neighbourhoods in Nairobi showcased their creativity on the streets and walls along Kenyatta Avenue.
World record holder Eliud Kipchoge was also honoured with an large portrait near Hughes Building next to JKUAT town campus along Kenyatta Avenue.
According to one of the graffiti artists, they joined hands to beautify the streets of Nairobi, to make Nairobi residents and visitors enjoy the city during the festive season.
