President William Ruto has unveiled a comprehensive plan to restore Nairobi’s image through a joint effort between the national and county governments. Speaking during a Sunday church service, Ruto said the initiative aims to make Nairobi “clean, mobile, and well-lit,” reflecting the true image of Kenya.
The President outlined three key priorities agreed upon with Nairobi leaders: cleaning the city, improving infrastructure, and enhancing street lighting. “The first thing is to clean Nairobi city; it can’t continue to be the city in filth,” Ruto said, emphasizing that the government is determined to transform the capital.
The ongoing city clean-up, led by thousands of young people under the Nairobi River Regeneration Project, is already underway. Ruto revealed that the government is finalizing an agreement with private sector partners to expand the clean-up across all parts of Nairobi.
On infrastructure, the President pledged to ensure that all city roads are tarmacked, with the national government providing additional support to Nairobi County. He also promised to enhance street lighting to improve safety and night-time mobility. “Many things go wrong in the dark. We must ensure Nairobi becomes a city of light,” he added.
Launched in March 2024, the Nairobi River Regeneration Project seeks to revive 27.2 kilometers of river and tributaries by 2027. The initiative aims to cut pollution by 90 percent, reclaim riparian land, and resettle vulnerable communities humanely.
Already, over 40,000 young people are employed under the Climate Works Mtaani program unclogging sewers and constructing trunk lines, with another 18,000 set to join. The project will feature a 54km sewer line, upgraded treatment plants, and a 27.2km non-motorised corridor with parks, cycling lanes, and walkways.
By 2027, the project aims to deliver clean waterways, affordable housing, safer neighborhoods, and sustainable livelihoods—restoring Nairobi’s pride as the capital of Africa’s rising green city.
