Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has announced that the county will use advanced technology to monitor river corridors and strengthen flood preparedness across the city. The initiative comes as part of efforts to prevent recurrent flooding during the rainy season and to improve disaster response strategies.

In a statement made during a presser held on Monday, March 16, 2027, Governor Salaja explained that the county has already started leveraging satellite imagery and Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping to assess high-risk areas and track the flow of rivers.

“We have directed the preparation and use of satellite and GIS mapping data covering all our river corridors, from the source flat plains to high-risk flood zones. We will share this information continuously with government agencies, the media, and the public to strengthen disaster preparedness,” Sakaja stated.

He noted that providing real-time data will help authorities respond quickly to emergencies and ensure residents receive timely alerts on potential flooding. The mapping will also inform long-term planning for drainage and river management across Nairobi.

Mass demolitions along Nairobi waterways

The Governor said the county will begin demolishing structures built along waterways as part of emergency efforts to prevent flooding in the city. Governor Johnson Sakaja announced the move after heavy rains exposed blocked drainage channels and encroached river corridors across several estates.

He added that clearing the waterways is necessary to restore natural river flow and reduce the risk of flooding in residential areas. The announcement comes after several parts of Nairobi experienced rising water levels following recent downpours.

Governor Sakaja acknowledged that many of the flooding incidents being witnessed in the city are linked to illegal construction on riparian land and drainage paths that were meant to remain open.

“People have built structures on the waterways. We will demolish all the structures along the waterways starting this week. You will see us opening these areas this week,” Sakaja stated.

Sakaja stated that the demolitions may affect some residents and property owners but insisted that the county must take decisive steps to prevent further disasters.

“We must remember that these are delayed short rains, the long rains have not yet come, and so painful decisions must be made, though actions must be taken, and I am sure we will have the goodwill of the public as we open up these places,” he firmly stated.