Things Some Johannesburg Movers Will Not Necessarily Tell You about Nairobi

Below are things movers from Johannesburg to Nairobi might not tell you about Kenya, and more specifically, Nairobi, and which would make life easier if you already had the information at hand.

Traffic

Nairobi, like many other cities in the world, such as Johannesburg, has traffic congestion from 07:00 to 09:00 during the weekdays and the same in the afternoons from 16:00 to 18:30. It is therefore recommended to find housing near your place of business or work, or to leave early in the morning to get to work, especially if you have to travel along Ngong, Mombasa, or Jogoo Roads. To avoid sitting in traffic for hours on end, leave the office before 17:00 or stay until after 18:15.

Safety

Though Kenya has been in the news quite often over the past three years for acts of terrorism committed in the country, the city of Nairobi is generally just as safe (or dangerous) as Johannesburg. There are areas to avoid and following common sense regarding security is just as important as when you stay in one of the larger cities in South Africa. Avoid speaking to strangers that ask for help, as this could be a ploy to lure you into an alley.

Public transport and cars

The roads around Nairobi favour 4x4s. It might be a good idea to invest in a 4×4 SUV rather than a passenger car if you plan on driving on the outer-city roads. Public transportation is still the number one way to get around in the city, with most workers using the bus system or the minivan taxis called “matatus”. You can travel on the “boda-bodas”, which are motorcycle-based taxis, but for obvious safety reasons, it is better to have your own vehicle in Nairobi.

Schools

Nairobi has a number of excellent international schools. You should choose one that is near your home, and meets your budget requirements and religious or personal preferences. School fees range from 48 000 to more than 90 000 Kenyan shillings (KES) per term at private schools. However, the British curriculum schools are more expensive, with tuition fees of over KES 800 000 per annum. The public schools are free, though you will need to buy books and stationary. We can assist in finding appropriate schools, including visits to the schools.

Living costs

Living costs in Nairobi vary according to personal lifestyles. For people enjoying budget lifestyles, the living costs can be as little as 24 000 to 30 000 per month. The average middle-class living costs per person start at around KES 58 000 monthly. Upper-middle and luxury-living costs per month are in the region of KES 180 000+ a month at the time of writing.

Language barriers

If you come from Johannesburg, you will not have any problems communicating with the people as almost everyone can speak English in Nairobi.

Facilities and infrastructure

Though a 4×4 is recommended for driving outside the city, Nairobi boasts a modern road infrastructure with highways similar to that of Gauteng. Water and electricity supply is about the same as in South Africa, with the occasional power disruptions. It might be wise to keep a few candles or solar lights and a generator as backup.

It is hot!

As a South African, you are already accustomed to warm weather. Don’t expect anything different in Kenya except even warmer weather during the summer months. Mosquito repellent and nets are recommended.

Housing prices

There is ample housing in the city with furnished residential abodes available from KES 91 000 per month to over KES 320 000 per month. Unfurnished apartments and homes are more affordable. The upmarket areas in Nairobi include the likes of Runa, Yaya, Kileleshwa, Gigiri, Kilimani, and Westlands.

The solution

Movers from Johannesburg to Nairobi may be able to get your belongings safely from South Africa to Kenya, but they do not necessarily have all the information at hand to prepare you for your new life in Kenya. Fortunately, we are different. We have an international network of partners to ensure hassle-free and cost-effective moving from Johannesburg to Nairobi, or other cities in Kenya. In addition, we offer an extensive range of services, including helping you to find an appropriate school for your children, housing, negotiating and signing the lease, registering for utilities, finding medical facilities, and more.