Sakaja Launches Crackdown on Illegal Riverbank Structures to Tackle Nairobi Flooding

By steve

Johnson Sakaja has ordered the immediate demolition of illegal structures built along riverbanks and the relocation of individuals occupying riparian land, in a bold intervention aimed at ending Nairobi’s recurring flooding.

The directive, issued under his role as Chair of the Implementation Committee on the Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreement, is already being implemented across key hotspots in the city.

Speaking in Westlands during an inspection and demolition exercise near Westgate Shopping Mall, the governor said action followed the submission of a 48-hour report by the Infrastructure Subcommittee outlining urgent flood mitigation measures.“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,” Sakaja said.

The ongoing operation is targeting developments that have encroached on waterways, significantly restricting the natural flow of rivers and drainage systems. Authorities noted that some rivers had been reduced to narrow culverts, leaving them unable to handle heavy rainfall.“Here at Westgate, an entire river had been confined into a small culvert. We are reopening it to restore proper water flow,” he added.

Heavy machinery has been deployed along sections of the Nairobi River and its tributaries to clear debris, dredge channels, and remove structures blocking drainage paths.The exercise forms part of a broader strategy by the county and national government to restore riparian reserves, improve stormwater management, and protect residents and businesses from flood-related losses.Even as the demolitions continue, concerns are emerging over the displacement of affected residents, with leaders and stakeholders calling for humane resettlement plans to cushion those forced to move.