Fighting Floods in Nairobi: Sakaja Starts Cleanup, Evacuates People on River Banks

Governor Johnson Sakaja ordered the immediate demolition of illegal buildings to fight flooding in Nairobi
On Thursday, March 19, large rigs were used to restore river flow and clear blocked drainage systems.
Authorities emphasized responsibility for illegal development contributing to the flood crisis

Nairobi – Chairman of the Cooperation Agreement Implementation Committee, Sakaja Johnsonhas ordered the immediate demolition of illegal structures along the banks of rivers and the relocation of individuals living on riverside land as part of a major plan to combat flooding.

Johnson Sakaja chaired a meeting on flood mitigation plans. Photo: Johnson Sakaja.
Source: Facebook

Speaking at Westlands during an inspection and demolition exercise near the Westgate area, the governor confirmed that works have started following the submission of a 48-hour progress report by the Infrastructure Sub-Committee.

Will Nairobi County demolish illegal buildings?

“The instructions were clear—within 48 hours, we needed a real action plan to deal with the floods. I have received the report, and the implementation is now underway,” Sakaja said on Thursday, March 19.

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The operation includes demolishing structures that have constricted waterways, including areas where rivers had been reduced to smaller channels unable to handle large flows of water.

“Here at Westgate, the entire river was closed in a small dam. We are opening it again to restore the good flow of water,” the governor said.

Large rigs have already been deployed along key stretches of the river to clear debris, dig waterways, and remove illegal developments that have blocked natural drainage.

The governor warned that all structures built along waterways will be removed without exception and urged the affected residents and developers to leave voluntarily before the implementation.

“This is not a one-time exercise. It is a continuous effort to restore our rivers and prevent further loss of life and property,” he said.

Johnson Sakaja during inspection of flood-prone areas — Johnson Sakaja said people living along the banks of rivers should move. Photo: Johnson Sakaja.
Source: Facebook

Which areas are scheduled for demolition activities in Nairobi?

Several areas have been earmarked for implementation, including Kirichwa in Kilimani, parts of Westlands, parts of the city center (CBD), and areas downstream of the Nairobi River.

At the same time, multi-agency teams are clearing blocked drainage systems and making urgent road repairs in flood-affected areas, with progress reports expected every week.