President William Ruto's vision to transform Nairobi’s rivers has faced yet another setback after residents living nearby raised grievances following a notice to surrender their land.
Speaking during an engagement session on Wednesday, residents of Dagoretti and Westlands who live near these rivers expressed strong opposition to the proposal, stating that they had not been consulted.
The grievances of the irate residents largely centred on the lack of transparency in the entire process.
"As much as we want these positive developments, there is something we demand—there should be coordination and cooperation. If you want to touch anybody's land, kindly come and tell me why you are doing so, and let me allow you in peace," one resident lamented.
In essence, the resident sought clarification on why she was unable to develop her own land and what her rights were in the matter.
Describing the planned eviction as a historic injustice, she urged the government to follow the proper legal procedures in acquiring their land to ensure a smooth and fair transition.
Another resident pointed out that the government’s approach did not allow them to have a say in the acquisition of their land.
This opposition comes on the heels of a rehabilitation exercise that will see not only residents but also 145 companies evacuated to clear the way.
The companies were earmarked for closure by Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, who noted that they were responsible for the pollution crisis affecting Nairobi’s rivers.
"We’ve reached a point where we cannot tolerate this blatant disregard for our environmental laws. NEMA is working hand-in-hand with the ministry to ensure every identified polluter complies or shuts down," he stated in October 2024.
In 2018, 4,000 households located along Nairobi’s rivers were demolished, leaving thousands homeless.
In April 2024, the Nairobi Rivers Commission proposed the resettlement of Kenyans living on riparian land who were set to be evicted, in an effort to avoid legal challenges.
