Wetang’ula, county officials forge plan to revive Nairobi River

Nairobi County Environment Department Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria and Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula during a meeting on June 10, 2025/ MOSES WETANG’ULA X

Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula has pledged to bolster efforts to clean up and restore the Nairobi River, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation in the capital.

On Tuesday, Wetang’ula met with Nairobi County’s Environment Chief Officer, Geoffrey Mosiria, to explore collaborative initiatives aimed at tackling pollution and restoring the river’s ecosystem.

“Our conversation focused on strengthening collaboration between the National Assembly, the Nairobi River Commission, and the Nairobi County Government,” Wetang’ula said.

“We’re determined to support the Nairobi River Regeneration and Engineering Works Programme and ensure the river becomes a clean and vibrant part of the city.”

Wetang’ula stressed that environmental protection is key to preserving biodiversity, stabilizing ecosystems, and managing resources sustainably.

He noted that river pollution and poor waste management continue to plague Nairobi, in part due to gaps in enforcing environmental regulations.

The renewed focus on river cleanup aligns with President William Ruto’s ambitious Nairobi River Regeneration and Engineering Works Programme, launched in March at a cost of Sh50 billion.

The initiative aims to create 40,000 jobs under the Climate WorX Mtaani Initiative, construct 50,000 affordable houses in reclaimed areas, and lay a 60km sewer line along the river.

During the launch, President Ruto described the project as transformative—promising dignified living, modern infrastructure, and economic empowerment for residents. He set a bold target to visibly improve the river’s condition within 24 months.

The project’s scope stretches beyond Nairobi, reaching into Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado, and Murang’a counties.

It includes rehabilitating the river, managing waste, building new sewer lines, and enhancing flood defenses, all to boost urban resilience and public health.

At the launch in Kamukunji Constituency, President Ruto urged Kenyans to embrace national unity, citing his collaboration with opposition leader Raila Odinga as crucial for the country’s progress.

“Kenya will not change if the right decisions are not made,” the President said.

“We must work together for the prosperity of this country.”

As cleanup efforts gather momentum, Wetang’ula and other leaders say they are committed to turning Nairobi’s polluted riverbanks into safe, livable, and economically active spaces—ensuring the Nairobi River becomes a symbol of environmental and social renewal.