Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has officially confirmed over 3,500 members of the county’s “Green Army” environmental workforce to permanent and pensionable employment, marking the largest recruitment in the city’s environmental sector in nearly four decades.
Speaking at Central Park during the handover ceremony, Sakaja described the move as a historic milestone for Nairobi’s cleanliness and environmental management.
“The last time environment sector personnel were hired was in 1987. This is the biggest number ever. What we are doing today is historic. Now you have permanent and pensionable jobs after your diligent work keeping the city clean,” he said.
The Green Army, responsible for maintaining Nairobi’s cleanliness, has been instrumental in waste collection, street sweeping, and beautification projects. Sakaja urged the workers to uphold high standards of discipline and commitment, emphasizing that cleaning the city daily is now their formal obligation.
“You must have shifts, cover every neighborhood, and use the equipment we’ve provided — including machines, tippers, and compactors,” he instructed.
The Governor also revealed plans for the formation of the Green Nairobi Company, a specialized agency that will independently manage the city’s cleanliness, modeled on the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company. The company has already been registered, with benchmarking exercises conducted in South Africa, Kigali, and other global cities.
Green Nairobi County Executive Committee Member Maureen Njeri praised the workers for their dedication over the past two years, noting that the Governor’s decision reflected confidence in their performance.
“This shows that the Governor is confident in the work the Green Army is doing. We must now put our best foot forward. You are the custodians of our city’s cleanliness and beauty,” Njeri said.
Finance CEC Charles Kerich advised the newly confirmed employees to manage their finances prudently while taking pride in their role. Environment Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria challenged them to set higher standards and lead by example in guiding Nairobi residents to keep their surroundings clean.
The confirmation of the Green Army to permanent positions is expected to not only enhance job security for the workers but also boost Nairobi’s long-term environmental sustainability and urban appeal.
