Olekina raises alarm over billboards in Kenyan towns
By Kenneth Mwenda, June 28, 2026Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has raised concerns over growing inequality and poor urban planning in Kenya, saying leaders have failed to address basic social and governance challenges.
In a post on his X account on Sunday, June 28, 2026, Olekina said the widening gap between the rich and the poor is becoming more visible and is now affecting younger generations.
“We must confront an uncomfortable truth: as leaders, we have not done enough for our society,” he wrote. “The widening gap between the rich and the poor is becoming more evident each day, and its impact is especially visible among Generation Alpha.”
He also criticised the condition of many county headquarters, saying they reflect neglect and lack of planning.
“Our urban centers reflect this neglect. Many county headquarters are in a state of disrepair, lacking proper planning and basic order,” the senator said.
Narok safety concerns
Olekina pointed to Narok Town as an example, where he said billboards along the main street have overtaken official road signage, creating safety risks for road users.
“Along its main street, the number of billboards mounted on road reserves now exceeds the number of road signs,” he noted. “These billboards are placed barely 50 meters apart, obstructing visibility and posing a serious risk to motorists and pedestrians alike.”
Olekina warned that the situation worsens during peak traffic hours, turning what should be a simple commute into a hazardous ordeal. He argued that such unregulated visual clutter not only compromises road safety but also undermines the dignity and functionality of Kenyan towns.
The senator called for the immediate removal of all billboards from road reserves across the country, urging county governments to enforce existing regulations. He referenced a similar directive already issued for Nairobi and stressed that it must be extended nationwide to restore order and protect lives.