Gachagua to oversee Nairobi Rivers Commission functions

Commission is part of Ruto's grand plan to clean up the city

In Summary
  • It shall be financed through funding appropriated by the National Government and the Nairobi City County Government in addition to donations.
  • the Nairobi Rivers Commission was formed  to “Reclaim the rivers of Nairobi as a spine to the city's blue and green infrastructure for a better urban environment and quality of life."
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua
Image: HANDOUT

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is now mandated to oversee the functions of the Nairobi Rivers Commission. 

In the first Executive Order of 2023, the office has been moved to the DP's territory. 

Last month, the Nairobi Rivers Commission was formed  to “reclaim the rivers of Nairobi as a spine to the city's blue and green infrastructure for a better urban environment and quality of life."

“In particular reference to Nairobi River Basin Project (UNEP, 2000); Adopt-A-River Initiative (UNEP and Rotary Clubs, 2019–ongoing), Nairobi River Regeneration Initiative (UN-Habitat and GoK, 2020– ongoing); and Urban Rivers Regeneration Programme (NEMA, 2019 – 2024) and incorporate the lessons to the new initiative,” the Gazette Notice reads.

The commission is part of President William Ruto's grand plan to clean up Nairobi city and restore it to its former glory. 

The commission will also be expected to examine previous reports and recommendations made to reclaim the Nairobi River and adopt lessons learned in the new initiative.

It shall be financed through funding appropriated by the National Government and the Nairobi City County Government in addition to donations.

Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu was on December 2023, appointed by Ruto to be a member of the Commission.

Pamela Olet is the chairperson. Other members include  Eva Muhia – representing riverine communities, Elizabeth Wathuti(civil society), Carlota Dal Lago(private sector),  Elijah Biama and Duncan Ojwang representing academia.

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