Major projects for Nairobi under Ruto-Sakaja deal

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A multi-billion shilling development plan is underway in Nairobi following a cooperation agreement between President William Ruto and Governor Johnson Sakaja signed on February 17, 2026.

The deal outlines key infrastructure, housing and environmental projects aimed at transforming the capital, with some already in progress.

Under the agreement, Sh80 billion has been allocated for infrastructure development, including the construction of 247 kilometres of roads to improve connectivity across the city.

The plan also targets improved public utilities, with 50,000 streetlights set to be installed or rehabilitated. Of these, 40,000 existing lights will be revived, while 10,000 new solar-powered and smart lights will be added.

In the water sector, the Ng’ethu-Gigiri waterworks project is expected to boost supply by 50,000 cubic metres daily. Additionally, two 27-kilometre trunk sewers are under construction along the Nairobi River, alongside a treatment plant with a capacity of 60,000 cubic metres per day.

Environmental management is also a key focus, with 100 acres set aside for a waste recovery facility. Clean-up operations are ongoing at the Dandora dumpsite, where 40 trucks are currently clearing accumulated waste.

To enhance security and enforcement, the agreement provides for the establishment of a Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit.

On housing, the plan includes 93 affordable housing projects across the greater Nairobi area, expected to deliver more than 180,000 units and market stalls. So far, over 112,000 units are under construction, with nearly 70,000 more in the pipeline.

The projects signal a coordinated push by the national and county governments to upgrade infrastructure, improve service delivery and address urban challenges in the capital.