By: Daisy Okiring, Nairobi Kenya
25 February, 2025
Nairobi, the capital of Kenya and home to over 4.5 million people, has long struggled with environmental challenges such as waste management, pollution, and deforestation. According to a 2023 report by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Nairobi produces approximately 2,400 tons of waste daily, with only about 45% being properly collected and managed. The rest ends up in illegal dumpsites, rivers, and streets, posing serious health and environmental hazards. Recognizing the urgency of these issues, Governor Johnson Sakaja has made environmental protection and sustainability a cornerstone of his administration. Through innovative policies, community-driven initiatives, and strategic investments, Sakaja is working to transform Nairobi into one of Africa’s cleanest and most sustainable cities.
A Commitment to Cleanliness and Sustainability
Governor Sakaja’s environmental agenda is built on three key pillars: waste management, reforestation and green spaces, and the promotion of sustainable urban planning. Since assuming office, he has implemented various initiatives that address these areas holistically, ensuring that Nairobi’s transformation is both impactful and long-lasting.
Revolutionizing Waste Management
One of the most pressing environmental concerns in Nairobi has been ineffective waste management. Streets, markets, and residential areas have frequently been littered with garbage due to inadequate collection systems and poor disposal practices. Governor Sakaja has prioritized tackling this issue by increasing the efficiency of waste collection and promoting recycling initiatives.
Governor Johnson Sakaja leading a night-long cleaning exercise in Nairobi’s CBD. Photo: Insider Bits
In January 2025, Sakaja personally led a night-long cleaning exercise in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), mobilizing over 3,500 members of the Green Army—a dedicated team of youth and workers tasked with keeping the city clean. This initiative was not just symbolic but also demonstrated the administration’s commitment to fostering a culture of cleanliness among residents.
The Green Army has since expanded, with more young people being recruited to participate in daily cleaning exercises across the city. To further enhance waste management efforts, the county government acquired 24 new refuse compactors, significantly improving garbage collection efficiency. These compactors are now operational in key areas such as markets and residential estates, ensuring that waste is collected and disposed of in a timely and environmentally friendly manner. Additionally, Sakaja has encouraged the establishment of more recycling centers to promote waste segregation and reduce landfill dependency.
Newly acquired refuse compactors being deployed for waste collection in Nairobi. Photo: Capital News
Another critical step taken by the governor is the development of the Dandora Waste-to-Energy project, aimed at converting Nairobi’s largest dumpsite into a source of sustainable energy. Once completed, this project will not only reduce waste accumulation but also generate electricity, contributing to Nairobi’s energy needs in an eco-friendly manner.
Expanding green spaces and tree planting
Urbanization and deforestation have led to the loss of green spaces in Nairobi, exacerbating air pollution and increasing temperatures. To combat this, Governor Sakaja has launched extensive tree-planting campaigns and park rehabilitation projects. In November 2023, he led a major tree-planting initiative at Dandora Estate Sewerage Treatment Works Ruai, where over 10,000 tree seedlings were planted. This initiative aligns with Kenya’s broader goal of increasing forest cover to at least 10% by 2030.
Governor Sakaja planting a tree during a reforestation initiative at Uhuru Park. Photo: Nation Africa
In addition to tree planting, Sakaja has initiated the restoration of key public parks and recreational areas. Spaces like Uhuru Park and City Park have undergone renovations to improve their accessibility and appeal to residents. The governor has also announced plans to establish more parks within available open spaces, particularly in low-income neighborhoods, to provide green areas where people can relax, exercise, and enjoy nature.
Advancing Green Technologies and Sustainable Urban Development
Beyond waste management and reforestation, Governor Sakaja is focused on integrating sustainability into Nairobi’s urban development. In September 2023, he inaugurated the Climate Action Zone at Radisson Blu Hotel, an initiative encouraging the use of green building materials and energy-efficient designs in Nairobi’s construction sector. The governor emphasized that developers who adopt eco-friendly building practices will receive incentives from the county government.
Governor Sakaja speaking at the launch of the Climate Action Zone in Nairobi. Photo: The Standard
A significant move towards sustainability has been the introduction of green bonds—financial instruments dedicated to funding environmental projects. The Nairobi County Government plans to issue these bonds to attract investors interested in financing waste management, water distribution, and the development of a mass transit system. These funds will support projects that reduce pollution and enhance public transportation, making Nairobi a more sustainable city in the long run.
A proposed design for Nairobi’s future eco-friendly public transport system. Photo: ITDP Africa
To further address air pollution, the county government is also working on introducing electric buses and motorcycles to Nairobi’s transport system. By reducing reliance on diesel and petrol vehicles, these efforts will significantly cut down on carbon emissions and contribute to cleaner air in the city.
Community Engagement and Employment Opportunities
Governor Sakaja understands that long-term environmental change requires active participation from Nairobi residents. To ensure this, he has launched various community-based programs aimed at fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
Members of the Green Army conducting a community tree planting exercise. Photo: Green Army Kenya
One of the most impactful initiatives has been the recruitment of 2,500 children and youth to work as environmental staff under the Green Army program. These young people are responsible for cleaning streets, planting trees, and educating communities about sustainable practices. The county government plans to hire an additional 1,000 youth in the coming months, creating more employment opportunities while simultaneously enhancing the city’s cleanliness.
Conclusion
Governor Johnson Sakaja’s leadership has set Nairobi on a promising path toward environmental sustainability. Through strategic investments in waste management, tree planting, green technologies, and community engagement, his administration is making significant strides in transforming Nairobi into a cleaner and greener city. While challenges remain, the governor’s commitment to environmental protection and long-term sustainability offers hope for a future where Nairobi can stand as a model city for ecological responsibility in Africa. By continuing to build on these initiatives and ensuring active participation from all stakeholders, Nairobi is well on its way to becoming a truly sustainable urban center.
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