Governor Sakaja orders immediate rehabilitation of Nairobi dam

The inspection, carried out in collaboration with the Water Resources Authority, the Nairobi Rivers Commission, and the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company, identified structural and environmental concerns that have raised safety risks at the aging facility.

Speaking at the site, Sakaja outlined a three-pronged emergency plan aimed at stabilizing the dam and preventing potential failure.

“The first is clearing obstructions downstream of the spillway to allow water to flow naturally and reduce pressure on the dam walls, which have shown signs of breaches. The second is testing the strength of the embankment through geotechnical surveys to ensure structural integrity. The third is enforcing a 30-metre buffer zone around the dam to protect both the public and the infrastructure,” Sakaja said.

Constructed in 1953, the dam was designed for recreation and flood control along the Ngong River. However, years of pollution, sewage discharge, encroachment, and informal settlements have significantly undermined its capacity and safety.

Authorities will begin public participation forums on Tuesday in Nairobi West, with further engagements scheduled for Wednesday in Highrise Ward, targeting residents living near the dam.

Sakaja said experts had considered decommissioning the dam but recommended full rehabilitation due to the potential flood risks associated with shutting it down.

“At this stage, we are choosing full rehabilitation. Decommissioning would multiply flood risks for downstream areas,” he said.

He added that preliminary studies by the Water Resources Authority support the restoration approach despite decades of environmental degradation.

“Yes, human interference over decades has caused challenges, but restoration is possible. We are committed to doing this carefully and responsibly,” he added.