President William Ruto on Monday launched the Nairobi River Regeneration and Engineering Works Programme, a KSh50 billion initiative aimed at transforming Nairobi into a cleaner, safer, and economically vibrant city. The project is expected to create 40,000 jobs, up from the 22,000 under the Climate Works Mtaani Initiative, and includes construction of a 60km sewer line and 50,000 affordable houses in reclaimed areas along the river.
The initiative will be implemented jointly by the Nairobi Rivers Commission and the Ministries of Housing, Environment, and Defence. It integrates affordable housing, modern markets, improved infrastructure, river rehabilitation, flood mitigation, waste management, and sewer system upgrades, extending to Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado, and Murang’a counties.
President Ruto emphasized that the project is a life-changing initiative that will improve public health, economic empowerment, and sustainable urban transport. In the next 24 months, we are going to see a difference in Nairobi River, he said during the groundbreaking ceremony in Kamukunji Constituency.
The project aligns with the government’s broader vision of reducing informal settlements, modernizing the capital, and improving the livelihoods of Nairobi residents. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki highlighted the importance of keeping the city’s rivers clean and protecting residents from contamination and flood risks.
Several Cabinet Secretaries, Governors, Nairobi Rivers Commission officials, and MPs were present at the launch, signaling strong collaboration between the national and county governments.