Nairobi River: A Forgotten Lifeline
By Mwirigi Erick
In the heart of Kenya’s bustling capital, a hidden resource flows beneath layers of waste and neglect. The Nairobi River, stretching approximately 70 kilometers from its source at the Ondiri Wetland in Kiambu County, was once a vital natural artery—supporting domestic use, farming, and local ecosystems. Today, it tells a starkly different story.
Unchecked urbanization, poor waste management, and years of environmental degradation have turned the river into a conveyor of pollution. In 2024 alone, the Nairobi RiverCommission removed over 4,450 tonnes of waste—an 18% increase from 2023. Industrial effluent, plastic debris, and raw sewage dominate the river, threatening biodiversity and public health.
The polluters are well-known: tanneries, plastic manufacturers, food processors, and informalsettlements in areas like Kariobangi, Mathare, Kibera, and Mukuru—where sanitation systems are lacking. Institutional waste from hospitals and schools, as well as agricultural runoff, further compounds the crisis.
Yet, despite the damage, the river holds immense promise. Experts estimate that with proper restoration, Nairobi River could supply clean water to over 1 million residents, particularly in underserved communities. Encouragingly, the Nairobi River Basin Masterplan launched in 2024 has already reclaimed 45 kilometers of riverbank and improved water quality by 40%. A 54-kilometer sewer line is also under construction to divert waste and create green public spaces.
The Nairobi River’s revival is more than an environmental cause—it’s a matter of health, dignity, andresilience.
In line with NEMA guidelines and the Nairobi River restoration agenda, all facilities operating within the river basin should conduct environmental audits and confirm EIA compliance.
This is a critical step toward safeguarding a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable Nairobi.
Need help with compliance or audits?
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📞 Call: +254 20 386 2204
📧 Email: info@greenkenya.org