Mudavadi outlines Nairobi’s Ksh.47.2B flood control strategy under Ruto–Sakaja pact

The strategy forms part of the broader Nairobi Rising Programme, a flagship cooperation framework between President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson.

Nairobi’s vulnerability to flooding, worsened by the presence of three major rivers flowing through the city, has been thrust into the spotlight following recent heavy rains. Speaking in Parliament, Mudavadi said the masterplan adopts a “Sponge City” approach, aiming for a coordinated, climate-resilient transformation of the city’s urban systems.

“The strategy is structured in three progressive phases to ensure both immediate response and long-term sustainability,” Mudavadi said.

Phase I (2026) focuses on emergency stabilisation, including rapid rehabilitation of critical drainage systems, establishment of flood early warning mechanisms, development of flood risk mapping, and strengthening coordinated emergency response capacity across the city.

Phase II (2026–2028) will target structural resilience through comprehensive drainage solutions across river sub-catchments, rehabilitation of key river corridors such as Mathare and Ngong, construction of underground flood retention infrastructure, and integration of green infrastructure to reduce runoff and enhance water absorption.

Phase III (2028–2032) aims to deliver long-term climate adaptation, including citywide deployment of resilient infrastructure systems, expansion of green corridors along river networks, and creation of a dedicated Climate Resilience Investment Fund to sustain interventions.

Mudavadi emphasised that tackling flooding in Nairobi requires a whole-of-society approach, combining emergency response, strategic urban planning, and sustained investment. He noted that the National Government and Nairobi City County are already implementing critical infrastructure projects, including road and drainage upgrades, sewer and sanitation expansion, and integration of flood mitigation systems within transport and housing developments.

A coordinated emergency response unit, bringing together national and county disaster teams alongside security agencies, has been established to support evacuation, rescue operations, and humanitarian assistance. On riparian enforcement, Mudavadi revealed immediate steps are underway to demarcate and protect riparian reserves, coupled with targeted evacuation of residents in high-risk zones.

The announcement follows a series of meetings between President Ruto and Governor Sakaja, including a State House session where Sakaja chaired the implementation committee reviewing progress on projects under the KSh 80 billion Nairobi Rising Programme.