President William Ruto announced that a section of the State House perimeter wall will be removed as authorities continue efforts to recover riparian zones and rehabilitate Nairobi’s river system.
Addressing a special session of the Nairobi County Assembly, the President stated that investigations by a multi-agency task force focused on river restoration have determined that part of the State House wall along Kirichwa Kubwa Road is located within a designated riparian reserve area.
“They informed me that at least 15 meters from the high water mark, and I assure you that wall will be brought down,” Ruto informed the County Assembly members.
This action forms part of a comprehensive initiative directed by the Nairobi Rivers Commission, a multi-agency body created in December 2022 to rehabilitate, cleanse, and restore the Nairobi River basin.
The commission has been leading efforts to reclaim riparian zones, eliminate unauthorized constructions, and tackle pollution in the city’s waterways.
The President stated that the decision to demolish part of the State House wall highlights the administration’s commitment to setting an example in implementing laws designed to safeguard public assets.
“The world’s great cities did not achieve their status by chance. They became great because leaders chose discipline over chaos, long-term vision over short-term politics, and the public good over private convenience,” he stated.
The President stressed that converting Nairobi into a contemporary and habitable city will demand challenging yet essential decisions, such as eliminating unlawful developments and encroachments on public property.
He described what he called the characteristics of a “serious city,” pointing out that urban centers must ensure water accessibility, efficient transportation, adequate sanitation, and public security.
“A serious city plans residential areas, transportation networks, commercial activities, and infrastructure that fosters development,” Ruto explained. “It preserves green areas, handles waste effectively, and establishes a respectable urban setting where business and opportunities can flourish.”
The Head of State reaffirmed that current initiatives to restore order in Nairobi will not exempt any person or entity, cautioning that opposition to reforms would merely postpone advancement.
“If road expansions are necessary, they will proceed. If encroachments need removal, they will be eliminated. If drainage systems require clearing, they will be cleaned,” he declared.
“If unlawful constructions must be demolished, they will be demolished. And if systems need restructuring to restore order, they will be restructured.”
The President also criticized what he termed inconsistencies in public expectations, stating that citizens cannot demand enhanced infrastructure while opposing enforcement actions.
“We cannot insist on first-class infrastructure while condoning unlawful behavior. We cannot lament about floods and then object to drainage projects. We cannot grumble about traffic congestion and then oppose road widening,” he noted.