Sakaja Cabinet Endorses Continued Rollout of Sh50 Billion Nairobi River Regeneration

The Nairobi City County Cabinet has formally endorsed the ongoing execution of the Nairobi River Regeneration Programme, a Sh50 billion infrastructure and environmental initiative. During a meeting chaired by Governor Johnson Sakaja on February 6, the cabinet reviewed progress on the multi-agency project intended to rehabilitate the capital’s polluted waterways and modernize the surrounding river corridors.

The programme, which commenced in early 2025, involves several large-scale engineering works designed to address long-standing sanitation and drainage deficits. Key among these is the construction of a 60-kilometre trunk sewer line. According to county officials, this represents the first significant upgrade to the city’s sewer network in several decades and is central to stopping the discharge of raw waste into the river system.

In addition to sanitation infrastructure, the cabinet noted the completion of various riverbank stabilization works and the expansion of stormwater drainage systems. These measures are intended to manage the recurring threat of seasonal flooding that often affects residents in low-lying areas. The cabinet also received updates on remediation efforts at the Dandora dumpsite, where work is ongoing to minimize the seepage of pollutants into the water basin.

Beyond environmental cleanup, the regeneration plan incorporates a significant urban renewal component. The blueprint includes the development of affordable housing units in reclaimed areas and the construction of modern markets. These markets are expected to accommodate approximately 20,000 informal traders currently operating within the riparian zones. The project also envisions the creation of public green spaces, including riverfront parks, pedestrian walkways, and dedicated cycling lanes.

Governor Sakaja stated that the initiative aims to balance environmental restoration with the economic needs of city residents. He emphasized that the regeneration is intended to provide safer housing and improved livelihoods for communities living along the corridor. To date, the programme has created over 40,000 jobs, primarily for youth engaged in cleanup activities and various construction roles.

The cabinet further resolved to intensify public participation within the designated Special Planning Area, which covers a 60-metre riparian corridor. County departments have been directed to fast-track the approval process for projects related to the riverfront and to increase enforcement against illegal structures and industrial pollution.

To support those affected by the redevelopment, the county government is working on transition plans that include providing alternative trading spaces and job training. The programme is being implemented through a collaborative framework involving the Nairobi Rivers Commission and various national government ministries, including Housing, Environment, and Defence. Once finalized, the project is expected to significantly improve water quality and open new economic opportunities along the Nairobi, Mathare, and Ngong rivers.