President William Ruto, on Friday, December 2, appointed former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu as a member of the newly established Nairobi River Commission.
Alongside Waititu, the president has also named Pamela Olet as the chairperson of the Nairobi River Commission.
Efforts to reclaim the Nairobi River and rid it of endemic pollution gained momentum in late November 2022 when the government mooted the formation of the body.
At his offices on November 24, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua confirmed that once formed, the commission will spearhead all efforts to clean the river and return it to its natural state.
“The Nairobi River is a national shame. The level of pollution in the river is unacceptable and the quality of life of those who live next to it lacks dignity,” the DP noted.
Gachagua confirmed that the President had assigned his office the task of cleaning up the river.
Nairobi River Commission comprises state and non-state actors, including United Nation agencies.
“No single actor can deal with the issue alone. This river has been polluted for years and it will take a concerted effort to clean it up,” Gachagua clarified.
The commission is expected to halt pollution, clean the river, create livelihood projects around the river, and restore the surrounding levels to acceptable levels.
According to Gachagua, the Nairobi River Commission will be another testament to Kenya Kwanza’s commitment to partnerships and engagement with all.
The Nairobi River Commission will also report to Environment Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya, who clarified that the river's clean up would involve the active participation of key decision-makers at all policy levels.
Nairobi residents who have for years lived by the river or depended on it for their livelihood will also contribute to its maintenance.
“Each of us needs to be part of this process, including those who had little choice in finding themselves depending on the river in one way or another,” CS Tuya confirmed.
