Community Engagement on Riparian Demarcation Across Nairobi’s Three Rivers
The Nairobi Rivers Commission (NRC), in collaboration with the Multi-Agency Team, continues to intensify community engagement efforts along Nairobi’s three major river systems—Nairobi River, Ngong River, and Mathare River—as part of the ongoing riparian restoration and regeneration programme.
The engagements are aimed at sensitizing residents, structure owners, and local stakeholders on the importance of riparian protection, the legally established 30-metre boundary, and the government’s commitment to restoring the rivers into safe, sustainable, and environmentally sound ecosystems.
Across various locations including Mathare, Kibra, Nairobi West, South C, Riverside, Kangemi, Westlands, and Kamukunji, residents have actively participated in forums led by National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), NRC Commissioners, and other stakeholders. These sessions have provided a platform for open dialogue, allowing community members to raise concerns, seek clarification, and receive accurate information regarding the demarcation process.
During the engagements, it has been consistently emphasized that:
* The 30-metre riparian boundary remains final and is guided by existing environmental laws and regulations.
* The demarcation exercise is a critical step towards flood mitigation, environmental conservation, and public safety.
* Structures encroaching on riparian land are subject to removal in line with the law.
* The government is committed to ensuring fairness, transparency, and humane handling of affected persons throughout the process.
Community members are also being informed about the planned developments within the riparian corridors as part of the regeneration programme. These include the installation of modern sewer infrastructure, trunk sewer lines, and wastewater management systems to address pollution and improve sanitation along the rivers.
In addition, designated areas such as Kamukunji will host organized market spaces and supporting social amenities, aimed at providing alternative livelihoods and structured trading environments for affected traders. The regeneration plan also includes green public spaces, pedestrian walkways, and improved urban landscaping to enhance the overall quality of life for Nairobi residents.
These engagements form a key pillar of the broader Nairobi Rivers Regeneration Programme, which seeks to transform the river corridors into clean, vibrant urban spaces with integrated infrastructure and community-friendly developments.
The Nairobi Rivers Commission remains committed to continuous public participation, recognizing that community involvement is essential to achieving long-term sustainability and shared ownership of the restored river ecosystems.