Nairobi West MCA calls for operationalisation of law on unapproved outdoor advertising
Omolleh says there are several adverts and posters erected in various public places such as electricity poles, streetlight poles, public walls and buildings, which have not only affected the aesthetics of the city but have not complied with the law passed in 2018
The Nairobi City County Government has been urged to fully implement a law passed in 2018, which banned random posters and adverts placed on public walls and poles across the city.
Through a motion tabled this week, Nairobi West Member of County Assembly Rex Omolleh said the Governor Johnson Sakaja-led administration should activate the Nairobi City County Outdoor Advertising and Signage Control and Regulation Act, 2018, which was approved by the County Assembly but has never been enforced. Omolleh also asked the county to come up with proper regulations to support the law.
The legislator noted that the uncontrolled posting of adverts on public structures has become a common sight and continues to spoil the appearance of the city.
“Concerned that there are several adverts and posters erected in various public places such as electricity poles, streetlight poles, public walls and buildings, which have not only affected the aesthetics of the city but have not complied with the Nairobi City County Outdoor Advertising and Signage Control and Regulation Act, 2018,” Omolleh said in his motion.
“Further concerned that the county assembly passed the Nairobi City County Outdoor Advertising and Signage Control and Regulation Act, 2018, which has not been published, publicised, and operationalised to date,” he added.
According to Omolleh, City Hall has ignored its constitutional mandate to regulate outdoor advertising and maintain cleanliness in public areas.
The motion specifically targets the use of public infrastructure for unapproved advertising, including electricity and streetlight poles, public buildings, and other surfaces where posters for events, quack services, and promotions are often posted without control.
If approved, the Assembly would direct the county attorney to publish the Act within two weeks and require the Urban Planning Executive to put in place regulations that stop illegal advertisements in Nairobi.
