Mixed Reactions Follow Ruto’s Pledge to Support Nairobi’s Development

Governor Johnson Sakaja is set to formalise a joint plan with the national government to improve service delivery in Nairobi, as part of a wider effort to address infrastructure and sanitation challenges in the capital.

President William Ruto recently announced a large-scale initiative to upgrade the city’s waste management, drainage systems, and road network. Speaking on Sunday, he said the clean-up has already begun, with thousands of young people taking part in the Nairobi River Regeneration Project. 

He also pledged that all city roads would be tarmacked and fitted with street lights, describing the initiative as a shift towards making Nairobi “a city in the light, not in darkness.”

Governor Sakaja welcomed the president’s support and said the programme would include cooperation with private sector partners. He highlighted an agreement with a Chinese firm to generate 45 megawatts of power from waste at the Dandora dumpsite as one example of the planned investments.

The announcement has prompted a range of political responses from city leaders. Some have questioned the county government’s performance, suggesting that national intervention signals a lack of trust in its capacity to manage key services. Kileleshwa Ward Representative Robert Alai criticised the governor’s leadership, blaming him for failing to engage effectively with corporate stakeholders.

Other leaders have supported the plan, while raising concerns about how funds will be used. Makadara MP George Aladwa backed the initiative, saying an organised and cleaner Nairobi would help attract investment and support long-term development. 

Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru also supported the clean-up effort but criticised financial practices at City Hall. He cited alleged misuse of revenue, including legal payments and irregular garbage collection contracts.