The government has outlined progress in the ongoing Nairobi River Basin regeneration programme, with drainage, sewerage, river rehabilitation and environmental restoration works underway in several parts of the capital.
The programme, being implemented through a multi-agency approach, seeks to restore the Nairobi River system while improving sanitation, reducing pollution and creating safer and more liveable urban spaces along the river corridor.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the regeneration programme forms part of the government’s broader plan to transform Nairobi into a modern and environmentally sustainable city.
“The transformation of Nairobi into a smart, modern and liveable city is deeply intertwined with environmental conservation,” Omollo said in an update on Tuesday, August 18.
He said the Nairobi River Basin Regeneration Programme is aimed at restoring the river system into a cleaner, safer and greener public asset while improving urban spaces and communities along its banks.
Works ongoing across Nairobi
At Globe Roundabout, major drainage works and river-sewage separation are underway, with preparations also being made for a future public recreation space.
In Baba Dogo, a pedestrian bridge has been completed, while construction of sections of the 27-kilometre twin trunk sewer is ongoing.
The works are expected to improve wastewater management and reduce the amount of untreated sewage entering the river system.
In Lucky Summer, contractors are undertaking river widening, deepening and dredging. Gabions are also being installed to reinforce riverbanks, while riparian areas are being cleared.
At Dandora, sewer trenches are being excavated and wastewater treatment infrastructure expanded as authorities step up efforts to address pollution, including contamination associated with the dumpsite.
Ngomongo is also undergoing solid waste removal and drainage channel restoration as part of efforts to improve the condition of the river and surrounding settlements.
Riparian land reclamation
In Kamukunji, authorities have removed encroachments along the riparian corridor, while a community centre, sports field and spectator facilities have been completed.
At Gikomba, riverbanks are being cleared and levelled as part of plans to create a more organised market environment.
The expansion of the Kariobangi wastewater treatment plant is also progressing, with the project expected to strengthen pollution control downstream.
The National Rivers Commission has separately intensified riparian reclamation activities in several parts of Nairobi.
In an update issued on August 13, the commission said a multi-agency team had undertaken reclamation activities along Ndovu Ahmed Lane, Khawtar 2 and Parklands Avenue.
The commission said the exercises were being carried out through a process involving public engagement, demarcation of affected areas and issuance of notices to properties affected by the reclamation.
“The exercise follows the established process of public engagement, demarcation and issuance of notices to affected properties,” the commission said.
The NRC urged residents to rely on official communication and avoid spreading unverified information about the reclamation exercises.
It said residents seeking clarification on notices, demarcation or other aspects of the process should contact the relevant government offices, including Ardhi House.
Youth benefit from restoration programme
Beyond environmental restoration, the government says the Nairobi River programme is also creating employment opportunities for young people living in communities along the river corridor.
Omollo said thousands of young people had secured jobs through the ClimateWorX Mtaani Initiative, participating in activities such as clean-up exercises, rehabilitation and environmental restoration.
“Through the ClimateWorX Mtaani Initiative, thousands of young people, particularly from the settlements along the river corridor, have secured employment in clean-up, rehabilitation and environmental restoration activities,” he said.
The initiative is expected to provide income opportunities for residents while involving communities directly in efforts to improve their environment.
Government warns against corruption
As the reclamation programme continues, the National Rivers Commission has warned members of the public against attempting to influence the process through corruption.
The commission said residents should not offer inducements to government officials in an attempt to alter reclamation decisions or influence the handling of affected properties.
“The Commission also notifies that corruption will not be tolerated. Members of the public are advised not to offer inducements to influence the riparian reclamation process,” the NRC said.
The government is expected to continue with the restoration works across different sections of the Nairobi River corridor as it seeks to address pollution, improve drainage and sewerage infrastructure and reclaim degraded riparian areas.
The long-term goal is to turn the river and its surrounding spaces into safer environmental and public assets while improving the quality of life for communities living along the river.
