Dutch Embassy Raises Alarm Over High-Rise Construction Damaging Kileleshwa Infrastructure

Nairobi City County has ordered developers of high-rise buildings in Kileleshwa to repair damage caused to public infrastructure, following complaints over blocked sewer lines, flooding, and environmental pollution.

The directive, issued on 20 December, requires developers to take responsibility for damage linked to construction activities, including interference with water, sewage, and drainage systems. County officials said developers would be held accountable for restoring affected infrastructure.

The Embassy of the Netherlands raised concerns after construction near its premises disrupted sewer and water services. In a formal complaint, the embassy said wastewater was being discharged into storm drains and flowing into the Kirichwa Ndogo River, posing environmental and public health risks. It also reported damage to walkways and sewer lines and called for immediate corrective measures.

Residents in the surrounding area reported similar problems. Homeowners in Dikdik Gardens said sewage from construction sites was entering the river, contaminating the environment. They urged the National Construction Authority and the National Environmental Management Authority to suspend ongoing projects until the issues are resolved.

The situation in Kileleshwa reflects wider disputes linked to high-rise developments across Nairobi. In Westlands, authorities suspended construction of a 13-storey building on Peponi Road earlier this year after structural cracks were detected, leading to the evacuation of nearby residents. In Parklands, residents obtained a court order in April against developers accused of damaging roads, cutting down trees, and affecting older homes near City Park Forest.

Concerns have also been raised in Lavington, where deep excavation works for a 16-storey building were reported to threaten neighbouring townhouses, and in Kilimani, where residents cited structural damage caused by heavy construction machinery operating close to residential properties.

In December, Nairobi City County announced a six-month amnesty allowing developers to regularise unauthorised developments. The county said buildings encroaching on public land or constructed in violation of court orders would not qualify and could face demolition.

The move follows a September ruling by the Court of Appeal, which directed the county to publish a clear zoning framework within six months. The court said the framework was necessary to provide certainty on land use and reduce disputes between developers and residents.