Johnson Sakaja, who also chairs the Implementation Committee on the Cooperation Agreement, has ordered the immediate demolition of illegal structures built along riverbanks and the relocation of occupants from riparian land in a sweeping intervention to address chronic flooding in the capital.
The directive was issued during an inspection and demolition exercise in Westlands near Westgate Shopping Mall, where authorities have already begun enforcement following the submission of a 48-hour action plan by the Infrastructure Subcommittee.
Aggressive Enforcement to Restore Waterways
Sakaja said the operation is targeting developments that have obstructed natural drainage systems, contributing to severe flooding during heavy rains.
“We needed a concrete action plan within 48 hours. That report has been submitted, and implementation is now underway,” he stated.
Authorities cited cases where rivers had been constricted into narrow culverts, significantly limiting their capacity to handle water flow. In Westlands, demolition teams have already begun reopening blocked sections of waterways to restore natural channels.
Heavy machinery has been deployed along the Nairobi River and its tributaries to dredge channels, clear debris, and remove illegal developments.
Citywide Operation Targets Flood Hotspots
The enforcement exercise is ongoing across several high-risk areas, including:
- Kirichwa in Kilimani
- Sections of Westlands
- Parts of the Central Business District
- Downstream zones along the Nairobi River corridor
Multi-agency teams are also clearing blocked drainage systems and undertaking emergency road repairs, with authorities expected to issue weekly progress reports.
Gikomba Market Demolitions and Trader Relocation
The crackdown extends to Gikomba Market, where traders operating within a 50-metre riparian zone have been ordered to vacate. The market, Kenya’s largest hub for second-hand clothing, is part of a broader redevelopment plan tied to the restoration of the Nairobi River.
County officials say an alternative temporary site has been prepared for affected traders as construction of a new market progresses.
However, some traders have protested the move, arguing that the boundary was expanded from 30 metres to 50 metres without adequate consultation. Despite the concerns, the county government has set a deadline at the end of March for full compliance, after which demolitions will proceed.
Calls for Compliance and Accountability
Sakaja warned that the demolitions will be sustained and enforced without exception, urging residents and developers to vacate voluntarily. He attributed the city’s worsening flooding crisis to illegal dumping and non-compliance with approved building plans.
He also called on regulators, including the National Construction Authority, to strengthen enforcement mechanisms.
Meanwhile, Mumo Musuva confirmed that coordinated operations are underway along major river corridors, stretching from Kabete Dam through City Park to Mathare.
Flood Risk Remains High
Authorities caution that ongoing heavy rains could worsen flooding if mitigation efforts are not maintained. The government maintains that reclaiming riparian land and restoring drainage systems is critical to protecting lives, property, and infrastructure in Nairobi.
