Nairobi Governor and Chairperson of the Implementation Committee on the Cooperation Agreement, Johnson Sakaja, has ordered the immediate demolition of illegal structures along riverbanks and the relocation of individuals occupying riparian land as part of a sweeping flood mitigation plan.
Speaking in Westlands during an inspection and demolition exercise near the Westgate area, Governor Sakaja confirmed that works had begun following the submission of a 48-hour action report by the Infrastructure Subcommittee.
“The directive was clear—within 48 hours, we needed a concrete action plan to address flooding. I have received that report, and implementation is now underway,” he said.
The operation includes dismantling structures that have constricted waterways, including sections where rivers had been reduced to narrow culverts incapable of handling heavy water flow.
“Here at Westgate, an entire river had been confined into a small culvert. We are reopening it to restore proper water flow,” Sakaja stated.
Heavy machinery has already been deployed along key river sections to clear debris, dredge waterways, and remove illegal developments that have obstructed natural drainage.
The Governor warned that all structures built along waterways will be removed without exception and urged affected residents and developers to vacate voluntarily ahead of enforcement.
“This is not a one-off exercise. It is a sustained effort to reclaim our rivers and prevent further loss of life and property,” he said.
Several areas have been earmarked for enforcement, including Kirichwa in Kilimani, parts of Westlands, sections of the central business district, and downstream zones along the Nairobi River.
In parallel, multi-agency teams are clearing blocked drainage systems and undertaking urgent road repairs in flood-affected areas, with progress reports expected weekly.
Sakaja also called for public accountability, citing illegal dumping and non-compliance with approved building plans as major contributors to the flooding crisis.
“Approvals are granted in line with the law, but some developers deviate from approved plans. This is a shared responsibility that must be addressed,” he said, urging regulatory bodies such as the National Construction Authority (NCA) to strengthen enforcement.
Nairobi Rivers Commission Commissioner Mumo Musuva confirmed that joint operations are ongoing along major river corridors.
“We are working from Kabete Dam through City Park to Mathare, clearing riparian zones and reclaiming encroached areas,” Musuva said.
He added that key sections in Westlands, Kirichwa, and the upper Nairobi River have been demarcated for restoration.
Authorities have warned that continued heavy rains could worsen flooding if urgent measures are not sustained, and have reaffirmed their commitment to enforcing the plan to safeguard lives and property.
