Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring Nairobi’s rivers through the Nairobi Rivers Regeneration Programme, a multi-faceted project aimed at improving the city’s environment, infrastructure, and social amenities.
Speaking during the launch of the Nairobi Rivers Engineering Works and groundbreaking for the construction of Social Housing and Associated Infrastructure in Kamukunji Constituency, DP Kindiki emphasized that the project will play a critical role in enhancing Nairobi’s status as a global capital.
“Once completed, this programme will solidify Nairobi’s position as the ‘capital city in the sun.’ It will integrate decent and affordable housing, modern markets, business parks, improved infrastructure, waste management, and other essential social amenities,” Kindiki stated.
A key component of the Nairobi Rivers Regeneration Programme is youth employment through the Climateworkx initiative. DP Kindiki revealed that more than 40,000 young people will benefit from labour opportunities under this programme.
“Already, 22,000 youths are actively engaged, and another 18,000 will soon be incorporated,” he said.
The government aims to harness the energy and skills of young people to drive environmental conservation efforts, infrastructure development, and waste management along Nairobi’s rivers.
As part of the regeneration plan, the government has commenced the construction of 10,264 social housing units. Families that have been displaced due to the clean-up of the Nairobi Rivers Corridor will be prioritized for allocation once the housing project is complete.
President William Ruto, who accompanied DP Kindiki during the launch, reiterated the administration’s focus on restoring Nairobi’s natural beauty while ensuring the well-being of affected communities.
“This initiative is not just about cleaning the rivers. It is about providing dignified housing, creating jobs, and ensuring that Nairobi thrives as a modern and sustainable city,” President Ruto noted.
The Nairobi Rivers Regeneration Programme brings together multiple government agencies and stakeholders to tackle long-standing challenges such as pollution, poor drainage, and informal settlements along riverbanks. The construction of modern markets, business parks, and improved waste management systems is expected to bring lasting socio-economic benefits.
With work already underway, DP Kindiki assured Nairobi residents that the government remains steadfast in delivering on its promises.
“This project is not just about today—it is about securing a better future for the next generations,” he concluded.
