Nairobi County cracks down on illegal structures as city battles flooding risk
By Kiprono Keileb, March 18, 2026Nairobi County Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service, Geoffrey Mosiria ha said Nairobi County has launched an intensive operation to remove illegal buildings and developments that have been worsening flooding in the city, targeting drainage lines, riverbanks, and riparian reserves.
In a statement shared on X on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, Geoffrey Mosiria said the county has begun demolishing structures that obstruct critical waterways, warning that residents must act immediately to prevent further damage.
“The County Government has commenced the demolition of illegal structures built on drainage systems, waterways, riparian land, and all developments contributing to flooding within Nairobi,” Mosiria wrote.
He urged residents to voluntarily remove any constructions that block water channels, highlighting the urgency of restoring proper drainage to prevent disasters during heavy rains.
“All residents are required to immediately and voluntarily remove any structures erected on drainage lines, blocked waterways, riverbanks, and riparian reserves,” the statement reads.
Unauthorised development
Mosiria noted that unauthorised developments have severely reduced the city’s drainage capacity, putting thousands of lives at risk and directly contributing to flooding in various parts of Nairobi.
“Encroachment on these critical areas has severely compromised the city’s drainage capacity, directly contributing to flooding and placing millions of lives at risk. This is a grave and unacceptable violation that will not be tolerated,” he said.
He warned that the county will not negotiate with residents who fail to comply, emphasising that enforcement operations will continue until all illegal structures are cleared.
“Any structure found obstructing drainage systems or built on protected areas will be demolished without further notice or negotiation. Enforcement operations will continue and intensify until all illegal developments are cleared and order is fully restored,” Mosiria wrote.
The County Government stressed that the measures are aimed at protecting lives, securing property, and ensuring the city’s sustainability in the face of increasing flood risks.
“These measures are necessary to protect lives, prevent destruction of property, and ensure the safety and sustainability of our city. Public safety will take absolute priority over all other considerations,” Mosiria said.