A section of the perimeter wall at State House Nairobi is set to be demolished within 14 days as Nairobi accelerates a large-scale river restoration programme targeting encroached riparian land.
The move is part of the Nairobi River regeneration drive led by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja in partnership with national government agencies. Officials say the decision reflects strict enforcement of environmental laws, with even high-profile government property affected as part of compliance efforts along the Kirichwa Kubwa River.
Governor Sakaja said the action demonstrates leadership in restoring the city’s waterways, noting that structures on protected river land must be removed regardless of status. He added that the removal of the State House perimeter wall sends a clear signal that the restoration programme applies across all affected areas without exception.
The wider initiative is backed by more than KSh 50 billion in funding and aims to reshape Nairobi’s urban landscape through river clean-ups, construction of walkways, cycling lanes, and development of public spaces. The plan envisions continuous river corridors linking parts of the city, allowing easier pedestrian and cycling movement between areas such as Eastleigh and Westlands, while improving safety through lighting and security upgrades.
Authorities also plan to redevelop key urban centres, including a modern Gikomba Market and upgrades around Globe Roundabout. Public participation forums are ongoing in affected areas, particularly Westlands, as the project moves forward in phases.
President William Ruto had earlier confirmed that the wall section was built on riparian land and would be brought down following a multi-agency review. He maintained that environmental regulations apply uniformly, including to State House, and ordered compliance with river protection rules across all affected developments.
