The Environment and Land Court in Kilifi has temporarily halted the construction of affordable housing projects at Watamu Park in Malindi, following a petition citing environmental destruction and lack of public participation. This ruling, issued on December 24, 2025, by Justice Mwangi Njoroge, places a 14-day suspension on all operations, requiring the status quo to be maintained until a further hearing on January 7, 2026.

• The petition, filed by environmental activist Halima Mohamed, named the Attorney General, Ministry of Lands and Housing, Affordable Housing Board, County Government of Kilifi, and NEMA as respondents.
• The core concern is the destruction of the last public park in Watamu, which is vital for tourism and community gatherings, despite residents supporting affordable housing.
• This follows a similar ruling days prior where a separate court halted the construction of 15,000 units for the Southlands affordable housing project in Lang'ata constituency, impacting the government's agenda.