Ruto Appoints New Leaders to Nairobi Rivers Commission
This initiative comes as part of the government’s broader strategy to rehabilitate and protect the riverine ecosystem within the capital city.
President William Ruto. Photo/The Standard Kenya.
By Robert Mutasi
In a significant move aimed at enhancing environmental conservation efforts in Nairobi, President William Ruto has appointed Bishop Margaret Wanjiru and former nominated Senator Millicent Omanga to key positions within the newly established Nairobi Rivers Commission.
This initiative comes as part of the government’s broader strategy to rehabilitate and protect the riverine ecosystem within the capital city.
The official announcement was made through a gazette notice, where President Ruto stated, “Now therefore, I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, in the exercise of the powers conferred on me by the Constitution and the Laws of the Republic of Kenya do hereby establish the Nairobi Rivers Commission.”
This statement underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the urgent environmental challenges facing Nairobi’s waterways.
The Nairobi Rivers Commission has been tasked with coordinating the efforts of various stakeholders involved in the rehabilitation, protection, restoration, beautification, and sustainable development of the riverine basin within Nairobi City County.
The establishment of the commission is seen as a critical step towards ensuring that the rivers within the city are restored to their natural state, promoting not only environmental sustainability but also public health and urban aesthetics.
To facilitate the commission’s operations, President Ruto announced that its secretariat would be housed within the State Department for Housing and Urban Development.
This strategic placement aims to ensure effective management and oversight of the commission’s daily activities, enabling a more coordinated approach to urban river management.
Bishop Margaret Wanjiru and Millicent Omanga, both well-respected figures in their respective fields, bring a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to community engagement.
Their appointments, effective from October 25, 2024, will see them serve a term of three years, with contracts subject to renewal based on their performance.
President Ruto’s decision to appoint these leaders reflects his administration’s focus on inclusive governance and environmental stewardship.
By leveraging the expertise of individuals like Wanjiru and Omanga, the Nairobi Rivers Commission aims to forge partnerships across various sectors, driving initiatives that enhance the health of the city’s rivers.
As Nairobi continues to grapple with environmental challenges, the formation of the Nairobi Rivers Commission represents a hopeful step towards restoring the ecological balance and ensuring sustainable urban development in the heart of Kenya’s capital.
The success of this initiative will depend not only on the leadership of the commission but also on the active participation of the community and stakeholders in safeguarding Nairobi’s vital waterways.
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