Nairobi River Cleanup Gains Momentum with Bold New Plans
Nairobi River Cleanup Gains Momentum with Bold New Plans
Big Steps for Infrastructure, Environment, and Community Wellbeing
Efforts to restore the Nairobi River have entered a new phase, as leaders unveiled fresh plans to clean the waterway, strengthen infrastructure, and create more green spaces for residents.
At a recent stakeholder meeting, Nairobi River Commissioners and community leaders shared key updates. They focused on removing direct sewer discharge, managing flood risks, and upgrading the city’s sewer system.
Commissioner Eva Muhia emphasized that the main goal remains eliminating raw sewage from the river and its tributaries.
Meanwhile, Commissioner Mumo pointed out four ongoing challenges: poor sewage management, uncollected waste, recurring floods, and misuse of riparian land.
To address these issues, the team plans to upgrade the Kariobangi Sewer Treatment Plant. They will also repair over 60 kilometers of damaged sewer lines.
Moreover, Mumo revealed that more than 20 kilometers of non-motorised transport (NMT) pathways will be built along the river.
These will offer residents safer and more sustainable commuting options. In areas prone to flooding, authorities will widen the river by up to 20 meters to manage heavy water flow and reduce climate-related risks.
Nairobi River Cleanup Gains Momentum with Bold New Plans
Community Engagement and Clarifying Land Use Concerns
Commissioner Mumo also shared plans to transform Kirichwa Kubwa into a safe, green community space. After a walkthrough with residents, he confirmed strong support for the idea and promised inclusive planning.
In addition, he clarified concerns about Special Planning Areas (SPAs). He assured the public that no private land would be seized for housing developments. All changes, he said, would follow legal processes and respect ownership rights.
Outgoing Kilimani Project Foundation executive, Mr. Mugo, praised the Commission’s work. He called for more collaboration with planning authorities to address land encroachment and lingering sewer odors.
Notably, he added that the foul smell one of the biggest complaints from residents will soon be gone as the cleanup progresses.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment from both the Commission and local stakeholders to keep the process transparent and community-driven.
Together, they aim to turn Nairobi’s rivers into safe, clean, and inclusive spaces for all.
