Roysambu is a mixed-use commercial and residential area located about 11 kilometers from Nairobi CBD. It is part of the localities that form the extensive Kasarani area along Thika Road.
It consists of various localities each with its unique character and charm. Among the popular areas in Roysambu include: Mirema Drive, TRM Area, Zimmerman, Kahawa West (near Roysambu), Garden Estate, Thome Estate, Lumumba Drive & Marurui.
History of Roysambu Area
Roysambu has an interesting history that dates back to 1904. The area was originally leased to an Australian man called Henry Herbet who used the chunk of land as an open air zoo and a farm.
The farm was generally referred as the ‘Roysambu Estate’ up until Henry Herbet’s demise in 1932. Afterwards the land was sub-divided and developed to the booming metropolitan that it is today.
Community profile
Roysambu is made up of a diverse population consisting of middle income earners to low income earners situated in some parts of the locality. Regardless of your budget or taste, there is something for everyone in Roysambu.
In terms of security, Roysambu is relatively secure but has of late received a lot of negative publicity owing to the criminal activities taking place there.
Accessibility of Roysambu is a straight 10, as the road network in the area is quite extensive. Moreover, it is along Thika Highway. This makes commutes fast and easy. You could be in town in less than 20 minutes if there isn’t any traffic.
Political Representation in Roysambu
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Roysambu Constituency is Mwafrika Augustine Kamande, representing the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.
While at the county level, the MCA for Roysambu Ward is Hon. Sospeter Gathahu Mumbi, serving in the Nairobi City County Assembly.
Rental Prices in Roysambu Area
Roysambu is a rental hub for most middle-class Kenyans in Nairobi. This being the case, majority of the properties in the area are for rent and not sale.
The table below presents the range of rental units starting from bedsitters to 3-bedrooms.
| Unit Types | Price Range |
| Bedsitters/Studio | 5,500 – 15,000 |
| 1-bedrooms | 10,000 – 25,000 |
| 2-bedrooms | 15,000 – 35,000 |
| 3-bedrooms | 25,000 – 55,000 |
Types of properties
The neighborhood boasts of a range mixed-use developments that have led to massive growth in the area. The types of properties located in Roysambu vary depending on the expressed use.
- Commercial – owing to the proximity of Roysambu to Thika superhighway, many offices have been set up in the area. It is becoming a better alternative to CBD office spaces with much more security, better accessibility and cheaper rents.
- Retail – the high population density composed of middle-income earners has made Roysambu a hot market for retail. This explains why malls like TRM, Garden City, Quickmart, Naivas & Magunas are plenty in the area.
- Residential – Roysambu offers affordable and spacious units for city dwellers who mostly work in the CBD or its environs. The combination of a vibrant night life and young dwellers has made it a popular area with many working class Nairobi youth.
Schools in Roysambu Area
- Mirema School – A private day and boarding school in Mirema offering CBC and 8-4-4 curriculum from kindergarten to high school.
- Thika Road Christian School – A Christian-based private school providing holistic education with a strong emphasis on faith and academics.
- Mountain View School – A mixed day and boarding school known for its nurturing environment and focus on academic excellence.
- Kasarani Group of Schools – A network of private schools in Kasarani offering quality education from preschool to secondary level.
- Sportsview Academy – A school that blends academics with sports training, promoting both intellectual and athletic development.
- PAC University (Pan Africa Christian University) – A private Christian university in Roysambu offering degree and postgraduate programs in theology, business, and social sciences.
- USIU (United States International University–Africa) – A premier private university located along Thika Road, offering globally recognized programs and diverse international student life.
Hospitals in Roysambu
Another good thing about Roysambu locality is that it does not disappoint when it comes to medical facilities. Whether you are unwell or your child that has a small cough, you can be sure to get access to a hospital in the area. Medical facilities include;
- Thika Road Health Center
- Aga Khan University Hospital
- Ruaraka Uhai Neema Hospital
- The Mater Hospital (in TRM)
- Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital
- AAR healthcare Clinic
Shopping Outlets in Roysambu
Roysambu’s high population and the presence of a stable middle-class in the area has made it a great place to set-up shopping areas. Over the years, the area has made home to several retail outlets that serve the locals.
Some notable outlets include;
- Thika Road Mall (TRM) – this was among the very first malls in Roysambu. It was built just after the construction of the Thika Superhighway. The mall houses many shopping outlets like LC Waikiki, Carrefour, Java House, Bata among others. It is also full of banks if you ever need to do a physical transaction.
- Naivas Roysambu – a popular supermarket chain outlet offering groceries, household goods, and fresh produce. It is located along Thika Road near Kasarani Police Station.
- Quickmart – a 24-hour retail store serving Roysambu residents with a wide range of affordable groceries and everyday essentials. It is found just after Lumumba drive along Kamiti road.
- Mountain Mall – situated on Thika Road near Garden Estate, it combines retail shops, offices, eateries, and supermarkets in one accessible complex.
- Magunas Supermarket – a growing local retail chain providing affordable household items and groceries. It caters to the middle-class market with affordably priced items. It was recently opened just where Switch club was. Along Kasarani-mwiki road.
- Powerstar Supermarket – another budget-friendly shopping center known for competitively priced household items. It is also found along Kasarani-mwiki road.
- Garden City Mall – a modern shopping and lifestyle hub along Thika Road. It features international fashion outlets, Carrefour, restaurants and a cinema. Residential units are also found within the development.
Churches in Roysambu
If you are a Sunday faithful and like an area with great churches that grow you spiritually then Roysambu could be you cup of tea. The area consists of notable places of worship such as:
- Jesus Winner Ministry
- Thika Road Baptist Church
- Roysambu SDA Church
- KAG Roysambu
- Kingdom Seekers Fellowship Thikaroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Roysambu is definitely a great place to live in due to its affordability and easy access to the CBD. Moreover, the area is served by a lot of facilities that make life enjoyable such as good schools, hospitals and Malls.
Roysambu itself is one of the 17 electoral constituencies in Nairobi.
The name Roysambu is thought to be a spin-off from the Masai name Soysambu which means the place of striated rocks.
Yes, the United States International University popularly known as USIU is located in Roysambu.
Roysambu is a growing residential and commercial area in Nairobi, Kenya. It is known for its proximity to major highways, diverse middle-class population and affordable rental units.
Matatus plying Roysambu can be boarded near Odeon stage, the Lopha travellers. Or from Ngara bus stop just next to the green footbridge.
