Pipeline estate: Where most Nairobians troop to start life

It’s said to be one of the safest estates in Nairobi's Eastlands area.

According to residents, Pipeline estate is its own 24-hour economy – and that it actually never goes to sleep.

Although people out there have often not held the estate in high esteem given its crowded nature and muddied streets, the residents love it.

It is here that most people who come to Nairobi – and want a fairly decent and affordable life – rush to begin life.

“People love it mostly because it is very convenient, we have a dedicated train service for those who want to arrive in town fast, and cheaply,” says Jared.  

Residents often attribute its safety status to the fact that most of its original inhabitants are from the neighbouring Machakos county; Kambas who love peaceful coexistence.

According to the residents, cheap housing and proximity to Industrial area and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport where some of the residents go to work are a major attraction.

“Many houses are single-rooms, charging between Sh4,000 and Sh5,500 rent monthly,” says John Nzau who lives in the estate.

There are a few units – especially those close to the road – are either one or two-bedroom.

A one-bedroom house charges between Sh11,000 and Sh13,000 rent monthly.

Residents say that food is not a problem in Pipeline – with roadside food vendors selling just about anything edible.

“One can eat chicken without having to slaughter a whole chicken,” says Nzau.

The streets are lined with hawkers and traders selling all manner of commodities. It’s a populous estate – residents say – but one where life is easy especially for young people.

On the other side of the famous estate is Fedha estate, which is associated with people of means.

The estate also shares a wall with the original Kenya Pipeline staff quarters, from where it got its name.

The estate is mostly inhabited by students who have just completed college and are looking to start life in Nairobi, traders, industry and airport workers.

Residents say that many people started life here in Pipeline before moving out to other places once stable.

"It's a story of humble beginnings for most residents," says Nzau.

The residents want the social amenities in the estate improved especially given it has no public primary and secondary school.