The National Rivers Commission (NRC) has intensified the implementation of the Nairobi Rivers restoration programme, carrying out riparian reclamation activities in several areas.
In a statement on Thursday, August 13, NRC said the latest activities were undertaken along Ndovu Ahmed Lane, Khawtar 2 and Parklands Avenue as part of the ongoing restoration programme.
"The Nairobi Rivers multi-agency team implementing the Nairobi Rivers restoration programme undertook riparian reclamation activities along Ndovu Ahmed Lane, Khawtar 2, Parklands Avenue, as part of ongoing efforts to protect and restore Nairobi’s riparian corridors," the statement read
NRC said the reclamation exercise was being conducted through an established process that involves engaging the public, demarcating affected areas and issuing notices to properties affected by the process.
"The exercise follows the established process of public engagement, demarcation and issuance of notices to affected properties. NRC reiterates that the ongoing activities are being undertaken in accordance with the applicable laws and procedures governing the protection of riparian areas," the statement added.
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NRC also urged residents to avoid relying on speculation or sharing information that has not been verified.
It said people seeking clarification on notices, demarcation or other aspects of the reclamation exercise should use the appropriate channels.
"NRC urges residents to stop speculation or to spread unverified information. Those seeking clarification on notices, demarcation, or other aspects of the process are encouraged to use official channels and seek clarification from the relevant offices, including Ardhi House, Room 213," the statement further read.
NRC further called on all stakeholders to cooperate with the multi-agency team and allow the reclamation process to proceed peacefully and within the law.
"The NRC further appeals to all stakeholders to cooperate with the multi-agency team and allow the process to proceed peacefully and lawfully. No individual should intimidate, threaten, harass or force another person to take action outside the established process," the statement noted.
NRC also issued a warning against corruption in the implementation of the riparian reclamation exercise, saying members of the public should not attempt to influence the process by offering inducements.
"The Commission also notifies that corruption will not be tolerated. Members of the public are advised not to offer inducements to influence the riparian reclamation process," the statement concluded.
Elsewhere, Nairobi County has intensified preparations for the anticipated El Niño rains, with Governor Johnson Sakaja announcing a series of measures to minimise flooding.
Speaking in an interview on Wednesday, August 12, Sakaja said environmental teams, including the Green Army, had been deployed across the city to tackle drainage and waterway blockages.
The teams are clearing alleyways, unclogging sewer and drainage systems, and removing accumulated silt and debris from river channels.
Sakaja said the interventions are intended to ensure rainwater can flow freely during heavy downpours, particularly in areas that are vulnerable to flooding.
"We are preparing Nairobi before the rains come. Our teams are on the ground clearing blocked waterways, opening up drainage systems and ensuring that our rivers have the capacity to carry stormwater.
"The widening of the Nairobi River under the regeneration programme is also part of this long-term preparedness," he said.
Beyond the emergency preparations, the county is implementing infrastructure works under the Nairobi River Regeneration Programme.
