'Pesa Otas': Nairobians busy throwing it all into the festive fun

Hundreds of entertainment spots in Nairobi are registering an increased number of patrons as residents of the capital continue to make merry this festive season.

Thousands of residents are not sparing any coins; instead going all out, wetting their appetites, eating roast meat and irrigating their throats with the most expensive booze.

The streets of Nairobi have borne the scar – dozens of inebriated residents; men and women, even young people, crawling back home after an evening out, smelling of alcohol and soda. Garbage at every turn.

There are children too – many carrying home painted faces and sweetened teeth after eating all the candies in the world -- and parents have had to pay for it -- and still think of schools reopening next week.

Today, this evening, as the hours thin, inviting the New Year, 2026, many men and women are already busy washing off last night’s hungover, readying themselves for one last round of fun as the cluck hits 12:00am – ushering in the New Year.

Josephine who works at a busy, exotic club says business has been very satisfying.

“It’s a busy time for us in the entertainment business, with many people trooping to the pub to grab a drink, eat roast meat and listen to music with friends,” says Josephine.

Josephine told Wananchi Reporting that the year has been slow for business, until this festive season; when many people have come out with loaded purses.

Reuben Mwangi, a resident of Umoja estate, says the festive season has left his wallet impoverished, but he is happy he has had some fun.

“I have spent a lot of money this festive season already. It’s been fun after fun with friends and relatives. This festive season has been mad,” says Mwangi.

John Otieno, bouncer in Embakasi said he has had a lot of work this festive year than he has had this entire year.

“It’s tough dealing with drunkards, especially during festivities, calming people with money to burn, and are drunk, and want fun,” says Otieno.

Many residents who spoke to Wananchi Reporting say money is fast melting from their wallets like water sipping through their hands.   

The only joy, many say, comes from the fact that January 1,^, 2026, is coming at the edge of the weekend, and that means extended fun.