Nairobi County Governor Johnson Sakaja has launched a major operation to demolish illegal structures along riverbanks and restore natural waterways as part of flood mitigation plans.
The move targets areas where encroachment has narrowed rivers and blocked drainage, raising the risk of flooding across the city.
The operation includes dismantling structures that have constricted waterways, including sections where rivers have been reduced to narrow culverts incapable of handling heavy flows.
Speaking during the inspection and demolition exercise in Westlands, Sakaja confirmed that the exercise 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.
Heavy machinery has already been deployed along key river sections to clear debris, dredge waterways, and remove illegal developments that have obstructed natural drainage.
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Clearing Encroached Waterways
The operation focuses on dismantling structures that have constricted rivers and reduced sections of waterways to narrow culverts incapable of handling heavy flows.
At Westgate, for example, a river had been confined to a small culvert, prompting immediate action to restore proper water movement.
Sakaja warned that all structures built along waterways will be removed without exception, urging 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,” added Sakaja.
Key areas for demolition include Kirichwa in Kilimani, parts of Westlands, sections of the central business district, and downstream zones along the Nairobi River.
The Authority is also targeting blocked drainage systems and undertaking urgent road repairs in flood-affected areas, with weekly progress reports expected.
Quiver Steak Among Structures Demolished in Nairobi Riparian Crackdown
Nairobi County has demolished Quiver Steak House in Milimani as part of the ongoing operation targeting illegal structures built on riparian land and drainage systems.
The popular entertainment spot was among properties flattened during the exercise led by Governor Sakaja to restore natural waterways and ease flooding in the city.
Governor Sakaja said proprietors who constructed them on protected land would bear the cost of the demolitions, warning that enforcement would apply uniformly.
Also Read: Ruto Issues Orders After Floods Destroyed Property in Nairobi and Other Regions
He noted that while approvals are granted legally, some developers violate building plans and encroach on restricted zones.
Multi-Agency Coordination
The Nairobi Rivers Commission, led by Commissioner Mumo Musuva, is coordinating joint operations along major river corridors.
“We are working from Kabete Dam through City Park to Mathare, clearing riparian zones and reclaiming encroached areas,” Musuva said.
Musava added that key sections in Westlands, Kirichwa, and the upper Nairobi River have been demarcated for restoration.
Governor Sakaja highlighted public accountability as a key aspect of the initiative, citing illegal dumping and non-compliance with approved building plans as major contributors to flooding.
