Residents, youth groups and environmental partners joined hands for a large-scale clean-up exercise in Dandora, aimed at improving sanitation and promoting community responsibility across Nairobi.

The initiative, held under the Science Adding Value to the Environment and the Communities Initiative (SaVE) was led by Dr. Joyce Kithure, spouse to Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and brought together local leaders, volunteers and community organisations determined to address growing environmental and public health concerns in the area.

Speaking during the exercise, Dr. Kithure said the programme focuses on practical solutions and community participation to improve environmental conditions in urban neighbourhoods.

“Environmental pollution is not just an environmental issue; it is also a public health concern that affects families, children and the future of our nation,” she said.

Dandora, like many densely populated areas in the capital, has long struggled with waste management challenges, including uncollected garbage, blocked drainage systems and poor waste disposal practices. 

According to Dr. Kithure, the accumulation of waste in neighbourhoods and drainage channels often leads to flooding during rainy seasons and increases the risk of diseases such as cholera and typhoid.

She emphasized that maintaining a clean city requires collective effort from both the government and citizens. 

“As we clean our houses every day, we must also extend that same responsibility to our streets, drainage channels, markets and public spaces where we live and work,” she said.

Organisers noted that the Dandora clean-up is part of a wider environmental campaign that will extend to several other areas across the capital, including Kawangware, Mathare, Kibra, Korogocho, Mukuru and the Central Business District.

The initiative also seeks to promote behavioural change by encouraging proper waste disposal, recycling and environmental awareness among residents, particularly young people.

Dr. Kithure thanked youth groups, community leaders and partners who participated in the exercise, noting that community-led action is key to restoring dignity and cleanliness in urban spaces.

“Let today mark the beginning of a culture of responsibility and environmental stewardship,” she said.

The SaVE Communities Initiative aims to continue mobilising residents across Nairobi to create cleaner, healthier and more sustainable neighbourhoods through science-driven solutions and grassroots action.