By Andrew Kariuki
Nairobi is set to overhaul its urban sanitation operations following a decision to integrate the Climate Worx programme into the county’s routine clean-up system.
The move, agreed during a high-level planning meeting chaired by Green Nairobi CEC Member Maureen Njeri, brings together national and county agencies in a coordinated effort to streamline waste management and improve environmental enforcement across the city.
Under the new framework, Climate Worx teams will be absorbed into the Nairobi City County Government sanitation structure, with their roles incorporated into daily operations such as street sweeping, drainage clearing, vegetation control, litter collection and general waste handling.
Officials say the shift is designed to eliminate duplication of roles and move away from periodic clean-up campaigns toward a more consistent, citywide system.
The restructuring also introduces tighter supervision at the sub-county level. County Commissioners and Deputy County Commissioners will oversee attendance and chair biweekly coordination meetings to monitor deployment and performance.
While operational control will remain under the county government, the National Youth Service will provide additional field supervision to enhance discipline and coordination.
To boost waste collection efficiency, the county, working with the Nairobi Rivers Commission and NYS, will deploy additional trucks aimed at improving garbage transport and reducing delays.
Authorities are also intensifying action against illegal dumping, with each sub-county set to establish multi-agency enforcement teams comprising national administration officers, police and county enforcement units.
Officials describe the plan as a transition from fragmented efforts to a structured system with clear accountability, expected to improve cleanliness, reduce drainage blockages and enhance waste management.
However, they noted that enforcement alone will not be sufficient, calling for increased public awareness and cooperation from residents.
Nairobi South County Commissioner Simon Osumba urged the adoption of clear performance targets to track progress and strengthen accountability as implementation begins.
Authorities say the success of the programme will depend on sustained inter-agency coordination, consistent enforcement and active public participation.
