Patrick Analo: Poor management, illegal dumping behind Nairobi's drainage issues

Flooded roads, illegal dumping and unplanned settlements are crippling Nairobi’s drainage systems, which have barely expanded since 1963.

With the city’s population expected to hit nine million by 2030, concerns are growing over the lack of effective urban planning and management.

Nairobi Chief Officer for Urban Development and Planning Patrick Analo, speaking on Spice FM on Monday, December 16, said poor management, not a lack of infrastructure, is to blame.

“The city doesn’t flood because it lacks drainage systems; it floods because of poor systems and their misuse,” said Analo, citing political interference and improper waste disposal as key issues.

The county has begun improving drainage in some areas, starting with Kileleshwa and plans to expand the efforts to Kilimani with other areas of the capital also in plan.

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“When you wake up to see a green paper bag of garbage dumped on a road, that’s not welcome in Nairobi,” said Analo.

He also addressed rising complaints about excavation sites, which have sparked disputes among developers and neighbouring property owners.

 Analo said many disputes arise from unqualified individuals managing construction projects, leading to unsafe practices.

“Excavation is a technical area defined in the building code, requiring proper engineering intervention to protect neighbouring structures,” he noted.

Analo proposed a borough management system to decentralise urban planning and enhance public participation in decision-making.

“This would allow managers to make certain decisions autonomously and reduce cases where submitted plans are rejected, leaving the public dissatisfied,” he explained.

On entertainment facilities, Analo said the county is drafting a policy to regulate clubs in residential areas, requiring them to maintain specific distances from homes and schools.

“We must set clear guidelines to protect residential spaces,” he said.

Analo expressed optimism that the reforms would improve Nairobi’s urban planning and address its growing challenges, including population pressure and strained infrastructure.