President William Ruto has defended the recently signed cooperation framework between the National Government and Nairobi County, dismissing critics and urging leaders to prioritize service delivery over politics.
Clarifying the Agreement
Speaking on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, during the Climate Works Nairobi River Regeneration Programme in Lucky Summer, the Head of State emphasized that the capital had not been “handed over” to the National Government but placed on a joint development path aimed at accelerating infrastructure renewal and improving services.
“No Nairobi has been handed over; I have a job to do. What we have done is cooperation so that we can build our city. Development will be overseen by the County Government the Governor working together with the MCAs. My role as President is to support them so that Nairobi continues to progress,” Ruto said.
He stressed that the arrangement is collaborative, with the County Government retaining oversight while the National Government provides technical capacity and resources to fast-track development.
Urban Renewal Priorities
The President outlined several projects under the partnership, including:
- Major road construction works.
- Expanded street lighting to enhance security.
- New pedestrian bridges along the Nairobi River to improve safety and accessibility.
- Sewer infrastructure upgrades and environmental rehabilitation.
He noted that thousands of young people are already benefiting from jobs created through clean-up and regeneration activities linked to the river restoration initiative.
Calls for Unity
Ruto urged political leaders to set aside differences and concentrate on delivering tangible improvements, describing Nairobi’s transformation as a national priority.
Governor Johnson Sakaja echoed the call for unity, dismissing claims that he had ceded authority. He maintained that he remains firmly in charge of the county’s mandate while leveraging national support to deliver cleaner streets, better roads, and improved health and education facilities.
“We have come together between the National Government and County Government for the interest of the people of Nairobi. Umoja ni nguvu, utengano ni udhaifu,” Sakaja said.
Reinforcing the Vision
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi reinforced the message, warning that Nairobi cannot afford to lag behind other global cities undergoing rapid modernization. He said the shared agenda is to decisively address long-standing urban challenges and reposition the capital as a competitive regional hub.
Broader Campaign
The Lucky Summer engagement forms part of a wider environmental and urban renewal campaign centred on:
- Restoring the Nairobi River corridor.
- Expanding sanitation systems.
- Upgrading roads and lighting networks.
- Creating employment opportunities for thousands of young people.
Conclusion
President Ruto’s defence of the cooperation framework underscores the government’s commitment to collaborative urban renewal. While critics argue the deal undermines devolution, the administration insists it is a constitutional partnership designed to accelerate service delivery and transform Nairobi into a modern, competitive city.
