Gigiri Blue Zone: UN Approved Housing Areas for International Staff
You’ve just accepted a position with the UN in Nairobi, and now comes the housing hunt. But unlike a typical apartment search, you’re facing a unique requirement: your residence must be within the UN Department of Safety and Security (DSS) approved “Blue Zone.” Which specific areas in and around Gigiri qualify? And what do you need to know to secure compliant housing?
Finding UN-approved housing in Nairobi can be challenging, especially for newly arrived international staff unfamiliar with the city’s geography and security protocols. The United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) maintains strict residential security standards, and understanding which zones are approved is critical before you sign any lease.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the specific Gigiri zones approved for UN staff housing, explains what the “Blue Zone” designation means, and provides practical advice for securing compliant accommodation.
📊 Quick Facts: UN Housing in Nairobi
Understanding the Blue Zone: What Does It Mean?
The “Blue Zone” is not an official geographic designation on any map. Rather, it’s a commonly used term among UN staff referring to residential areas that meet the UN Department of Safety and Security (DSS) approval criteria for international staff housing.
🔐 What Makes an Area “Blue Zone”?
The UN DSS evaluates residential areas based on multiple security criteria:
- Proximity to UN Complex: Generally within 5-7km radius of the UN Gigiri compound
- Security Infrastructure: Gated communities, 24/7 security, perimeter walls, controlled access
- Neighborhood Safety: Low crime rates, established diplomatic/expatriate presence
- Emergency Response: Accessible to UN security and emergency services
- Road Safety: Well-maintained access roads with adequate lighting
The Blue Zone concept exists to ensure staff safety while maintaining reasonable commute times to the UN offices. Approval can change based on evolving security assessments, so always verify current status with UN DSS before committing to a lease.
Primary Approved Zones: Core Blue Zone Areas
The following areas consistently receive UN DSS approval and form the core of the Blue Zone. These neighborhoods are within immediate proximity to the UN Gigiri complex and have the highest concentration of UN staff housing.
Gigiri Proper ✓ Approved
Distance: 0-2km from UN
The most convenient option, comprising the immediate residential areas surrounding the UN complex. Includes:
- Gigiri Court apartments
- UN Avenue residences
- Village Market vicinity
- Diplomatic estates
Pros: Walking distance to UN, maximum security, highest diplomatic presence
Runda Estate ✓ Approved
Distance: 2-4km from UN
An upscale, well-established neighborhood popular with diplomats and international staff. Features:
- Runda Mumwe
- Runda Matana
- Runda Paradise
- Spring Valley (adjacent)
Pros: Excellent security, spacious properties, family-friendly, international schools nearby
Muthaiga North ✓ Approved
Distance: 3-5km from UN
Historic diplomatic neighborhood with colonial-era charm and modern security standards:
- Muthaiga proper
- Muthaiga North extensions
- Adjacent to embassies
Pros: Prestigious address, high security, golf club access, established expat community
Rosslyn ✓ Approved
Distance: 3-4km from UN
Modern mixed-use neighborhood with numerous apartment complexes and townhouses:
- Rosslyn Riviera
- Rosslyn Valley
- Rosslyn Heights
Pros: Modern apartments, good amenities, multiple housing options, active social scene
Secondary Approved Zones: Extended Blue Zone
These areas are also generally approved but may require additional security assessments or are subject to specific conditions:
Conditionally Approved Areas
Kitisuru ⚠ Conditional
Distance: 4-6km from UN. A rapidly developing area with increasing expatriate presence. Specific estates like Kitisuru Gardens and Spring Valley extensions are typically approved, but individual properties require DSS verification.
Lower Kabete ⚠ Conditional
Distance: 5-7km from UN. Selected gated communities along Kabete Road (UN route) may be approved. Properties must meet enhanced security standards due to greater distance.
Ridgeways ⚠ Conditional
Distance: 4-5km from UN. Parts of Ridgeways, particularly those closer to Runda and within established gated communities, often receive approval. Individual assessment required.
Two Rivers (Runda Area) ⚠ Conditional
Distance: 3-4km from UN. The Two Rivers residential development area has seen increasing UN staff interest. Modern apartments with good security, but verify current approval status.
🚫 Generally Non-Approved Areas
The following areas, while they may have suitable properties, typically do NOT receive UN DSS approval for international staff housing:
- Westlands CBD: Too far, high traffic congestion, commercial area security concerns
- Kileleshwa: Distance and traffic considerations
- Lavington: Beyond typical approved radius
- Karen/Langata: Too far from UN complex (15+ km)
- Parklands/Highridge: Security and distance factors
- Any area beyond 7km: Typically outside approved radius
The Housing Approval Process: How to Get Your Residence Cleared
Finding a property in an approved zone is just the first step. Here’s the formal process for securing UN DSS clearance:
Step-by-Step Approval Process
Pre-Screen Location
Before viewing properties, consult with your UN agency’s administrative office or DSS liaison to confirm the area is within approved zones. This saves time and prevents disappointment.
Identify Suitable Property
Find a property that meets both your needs and basic security requirements: gated compound, 24/7 security, perimeter wall, controlled access, adequate lighting.
Submit Security Clearance Request
Complete the UN DSS Housing Security Clearance form with property details: exact address, landlord information, security features, floor plan. Submit through your HR/admin office.
DSS Security Assessment
UN DSS conducts a physical security assessment of the property, typically within 1-3 weeks. They evaluate access control, perimeter security, emergency exits, proximity to security threats, and compliance with UN minimum operating residential security standards (MORSS).
Receive Clearance Decision
DSS issues approval, conditional approval (requiring security upgrades), or denial. Conditional approvals specify required improvements (additional lighting, alarm systems, secure doors, etc.).
Implement Requirements & Sign Lease
If conditional approval, coordinate with landlord to implement security upgrades before moving in. Once final clearance is issued, proceed with lease signing. Important: Do NOT sign a lease before receiving DSS clearance.
⚠️ Critical Warning: Don’t Sign Before Clearance
Many UN staff have made the costly mistake of signing leases before receiving formal DSS approval, assuming their chosen area is safe. If DSS denies clearance after you’ve committed to a lease, you could face:
- Loss of deposit and advance rent
- Difficulty getting housing allowance
- Need to find alternative housing urgently
- Potential complications with visa/work permits tied to approved address
Always wait for written DSS clearance before making any financial commitments.
Practical Tips for Finding UN-Approved Housing
✅ Insider Tips for Success
- Work with UN-Experienced Agents: Some Nairobi real estate agents specialize in UN staff housing and know which properties typically pass DSS clearance.
- Join UN Housing Groups: Facebook groups and WhatsApp networks exist where UN staff share housing leads and clearance experiences.
- Consider Temporary Housing: When first arriving, stay in a serviced apartment or hotel while conducting your housing search. Rushing leads to poor decisions.
- Budget Realistically: Blue Zone properties command premium rents due to location and security. Typical ranges:
- 1-bedroom apartment: USD 800-1,500/month
- 2-bedroom apartment: USD 1,200-2,500/month
- 3-bedroom house/townhouse: USD 2,000-4,000/month
- 4+ bedroom villa: USD 3,500-7,000+/month
- Verify Housing Allowance: Confirm your UN housing allowance amount before searching. Don’t exceed what you’ll be reimbursed.
- Inspect Security Features: Even in approved zones, individual properties vary. Check: perimeter walls, lighting, guards, alarm systems, secure parking, backup power.
- Consider Commute Times: Traffic in Nairobi can be unpredictable. A property 3km away might take 15-45 minutes depending on time of day.
- Network with Colleagues: Ask other UN staff about their neighborhoods. Many properties have multiple UN tenants and established clearance history.
Changes and Updates to Approved Zones
It’s crucial to understand that UN DSS approved zones are not static. Security assessments evolve based on:
- Changes in local crime patterns
- Development of new residential areas
- Infrastructure improvements or deterioration
- Political or social developments affecting neighborhood safety
- Incidents involving UN staff or diplomatic community
A neighborhood that was approved six months ago might face new restrictions, and conversely, emerging areas may gain approval as they develop proper security infrastructure.
📱 Stay Updated
Always verify current approval status through official channels:
- UN DSS office at UNON
- Your agency’s administrative/HR department
- Official UN housing security bulletins
- DSS liaison officers
Never rely solely on information from landlords, agents, or even other UN staff—get official written confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions