Safety fears as state flattens structures near Nairobi Dam

A walk around the Nairobi Dam reveals a landscape of tension, where the government has already begun flattening makeshift houses near Highrise Estate. These structures sat directly on riparian land, leaving only narrow pathways for residents to navigate the dense settlements.

For years, squatters have encroached on this land, building homes that now face the reality of state-led demolitions. The move follows warnings that the dam is a ticking time bomb, threatening thousands of lives woven into its immediate surroundings.

From various vantage points, the scale of human settlement on the dam's edge is staggering. It is no longer just a water body, but a site of significant risk during heavy rains.

The Ministry of Lands and local authorities have frequently cited the dangers of building in such close proximity to the water. These makeshift houses often lack proper drainage, further complicating the structural integrity of the area.

Residents of Highrise Estate, which sits adjacent to the dam, have watched as the small settlements were cleared. The government maintains that these evictions are necessary to prevent a humanitarian disaster should the dam overflow or fail.

Pressure on Nairobi's infrastructure has led to many such encroachments. However, the current administration, under President Ruto, has signaled a more aggressive stance on reclaiming riparian zones to mitigate flooding risks.

Clearing these sites is part of a broader effort to secure the city's water infrastructure. Engineers have pointed out that the accumulation of waste and silt in the dam, exacerbated by nearby slums, reduces its capacity.

While the demolitions have displaced many, the state argues that the risk of staying outweighs the cost of moving. The pathways that once served as entry points to these settlements are now largely blocked by debris.

The Nairobi Dam, once a site for recreational activities, has become a symbol of urban planning challenges. Siltation and pollution have turned the water into a green expanse of hyacinth, masking the depth and danger beneath.

Government officials have stated that the land must remain clear to allow for potential rehabilitation of the dam. This includes ensuring that no new structures are erected once the current ones are removed.

For the people of Lang'ata and the surrounding areas, the dam remains a constant presence. Ensuring its safety is not just an environmental issue, but a critical matter of public safety for the entire capital.