Governor Sakaja Launches Aggressive Strategy to Restore Nairobi’s Rivers and End Flooding

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  Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has set in motion a comprehensive, citywide plan to reclaim riparian land and restore natural river pathways. The move follows a critical 48-hour technical assessment conducted by a multi-agency team tasked with addressing the city’s chronic flooding issues.

    

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja addresses the press on March 19, 2026, outlining a multi-agency strategy to reclaim riparian land and restore the city’s natural river courses to mitigate flooding.



     A Data-Driven Response

  The new strategy was developed by a specialized committee comprising engineers from the Nairobi City County, the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), and the Nairobi Rivers Commission. This team mapped all 17 sub-counties to identify high-risk zones where human activity has obstructed natural water flow.

  Governor Sakaja noted that the implementation of these recommendations is already underway. "We have analyzed the report and moved straight into action. Residents will see visible works beginning immediately to ensure our drainage systems are functional before the next heavy rains," the Governor stated.

          Reclaiming Riparian Land

  The Governor identified illegal construction and the diversion of rivers as the primary causes of the city’s drainage crisis. He highlighted the Kibagare River as a primary example of where the natural course was narrowed, leading to the recent tragic submergence of a nearby roundabout.

 To rectify this, the county will focus on:

•Restoring Natural Pathways: Reclaiming the full river path from Brookside Drive through to Oshwal.

•GIS Mapping: Utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to identify floodplains and reopen blocked waterways.

•Desilting and Cleanup: Intensive efforts to clear debris and silt from the city's main drainage arteries.

           Public Engagement and Enforcement

    Addressing concerns of regional bias, Sakaja assured the public that the interventions would be equitable across all 17 sub-counties. However, he issued a firm warning to those occupying riparian land, urging them to vacate voluntarily before enforcement begins.

  "We cannot continue doing the same things and expect different results," Sakaja said. "We must make difficult but necessary decisions to safeguard the lives of our citizens and the future of our city."

   A public engagement forum is scheduled at Westlands Primary School for residents of Parklands and surrounding affected areas to discuss the planned interventions and address property owner concerns.

            Beyond Drainage: Creating Public Spaces

   The reclamation project isn't just about flood prevention; it also aims to beautify the city. The Governor revealed plans to transform reclaimed riparian zones into public parks and recreation areas. Additionally, a proposed curio market is in the works to provide a designated space for local traders, integrating economic opportunity with environmental conservation.

   Governor Sakaja concluded by calling for a shift in civic responsibility, urging all Nairobians to respect the environment and stop the encroachment on natural water systems to prevent future disasters.

        

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