President William Ruto, today, began his five-day tour of Nairobi County, starting with a visit to Kamukunji Constituency where he commissioned the Kamukunji Technical and Vocational College.
During the event, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upgrading technical colleges across the country to equip youth with market-ready skills and enhance job creation.
Speaking to residents and traders in Eastleigh, the President, accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson, MPs, MCAs, and other leaders, emphasized the government’s focus on economic transformation and youth empowerment.
During the Kamukunji visit, President Ruto announced that he would, later in the day, launch the Nairobi Rivers Regeneration Project, an initiative aimed at cleaning up the three Nairobi rivers.
“Today, we are launching the Nairobi River regeneration project which will include a 60-kilometre sewer line to clean up the river. It will also involve construction of affordable houses for Nairobi’s low-income earners. This will enhance the city’s cleanliness and create employment for the youth.” President Ruto stated.
The head of state added that the project is set to generate over 30,000 jobs for the youth in Nairobi and will include a broad range of activities aimed at environmental restoration, infrastructure development, and urban renewal.
“Nairobi River regeneration programme will provide over 30,000 youth with jobs. In collaboration with the county government, we shall also work on our markets, social infrastructure such as playing grounds. The sewage system that has been disturbing Nairobi residents by blocking roads and flowing into people’s houses will be sorted once and for all,” Ruto noted in his address.
According to the government, the project, which will be implemented in phases, is expected to significantly improve the city’s environmental and socio-economic conditions.
The first phase will cover 27.2 kilometers of the Nairobi River, stretching from Naivasha Road to Dandora Falls. Subsequent phases will cover Mathare and Ngong Rivers.
Major Components of the Project
The Regeneration Project will involve different initiatives including infrastructure improvement and enhancing public amenities. The key activities under the program include:
1. Sewer Infrastructure Development – A new 54-kilometer trunk sewer line will be constructed along the Nairobi River to prevent raw sewage from contaminating the waters. This aims to significantly reduce waterborne diseases and improve sanitation for nearby communities.
2. Removal of solid waste and unclogging the rivers – Large-scale removal of solid waste, unclogging of river channels, and dredging operations will be undertaken to enhance water flow and prevent blockages that contribute to flooding and pollution.
3. Flood Control Measures – The river will be widened and deepened to control flooding, particularly in low-lying areas prone to seasonal water overflow.
4. Weir Dams Construction – The project will include the construction of weir dams to regulate water levels, improve water retention, and prevent uncontrolled flooding.
5. Affordable Housing and Urban Redevelopment – Over 50,000 social housing units will be built along the rivers. These homes will cater to low-income families and contribute to the reduction of informal settlements along riverbanks.
6. Public Amenities and Infrastructure – Community parks, public halls, and public toilets will be constructed to enhance urban spaces.
Additionally, pedestrian walkways and cycle lanes will be built along the rivers, providing safe and accessible routes for non-motorized transport.
7. Electrification and Security – The newly constructed walkways and parks will be equipped with street lighting to improve security and encourage nighttime economic activities.
8. Bridge Construction – A total of 44 pedestrian bridges will be constructed to enhance mobility for residents living along the riverbanks.
9. Wetlands to assist in water cleaning – Constructed wetlands will be developed to assist in cleaning and purifying river water, ensuring that the regenerated river remains a sustainable water source.
10. Wastewater Treatment Expansion – The existing Kariobangi wastewater treatment plant will be expanded to handle increased volumes of sewage, ensuring proper treatment and disposal of wastewater.
11. Support for Informal Traders – To enhance economic opportunities for small-scale traders, modern markets will be built along the riverbanks, providing designated and well-equipped trading spaces.
12. Tree Planting – Extensive tree planting along the riverbanks will be undertaken to combat soil erosion, improve air quality, and enhance biodiversity in the area.
13. Dandora Dumpsite Rehabilitation – the Dandora dumpsite will undergo a major rehabilitation process to reduce environmental hazards and repurpose the site for eco-friendly initiatives.
By Nairobi