How Ruto-Sakaja Sh80bn Nairobi additional funds will be spent, Sakaja reveals

Nairobi Governor, Johnson Sakaja, during the implementation committee on Monday, March 9, 2026./HANDOUT

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has outlined how an additional Sh80 billion development fund for the capital will be used.

The funding follows a cooperation agreement between President William Ruto’s national government and Nairobi City County aimed at accelerating infrastructure development under the Nairobi Rising agenda. Projects will target sewerage, roads, drainage, water supply, lighting, and waste management.

Under the framework, the Sh80 billion package will address critical infrastructure gaps that have long hindered Nairobi’s growth.

The governor said the largest share, about Sh33 billion, will go towards sewerage and sanitation infrastructure, a sector considered key to cleaning up Nairobi’s rivers and expanding access to sanitation services.

“The investment will fund the construction of two parallel 27-kilometre trunk sewer lines along the Nairobi River corridor, a new sewer treatment plant capable of processing 60,000 cubic litres of wastewater daily, and expanded last-mile sewer connections to households. An additional Sh15 billion has been earmarked for long-term sewer expansion across the city. This will also help address drainage challenges and bring visible change,” Sakaja explained.

Another Sh8.7 billion will be invested in roads, bridges, and drainage systems to improve mobility and address flooding in parts of the city during heavy rains. This includes Sh2 billion to fast-track completion of roads under the Kenya Urban Roads Authority.

“Energy and lighting infrastructure will receive Sh8.5 billion, including Sh3.7 billion for the installation of 50,000 new street lights across Nairobi, a move expected to enhance security and extend economic activity at night. The programme also sets aside Sh 1.5 billion for transformers and last-mile electricity connections to reduce the cost of power for low-income households, as well as Sh 3.3 billion for prepaid metering, transformers and lighting in informal settlements,” he added.

In the water sector, Sh5.1 billion will be used to address chronic supply shortages. The funding will support upgrades at the Ng’ethu Water Treatment Plant and the development of the Gigiri–Shauri Moyo water evacuation corridor to improve distribution across the city.

Solid waste management will receive a Sh6 billion boost, combining Sh2 billion from the national government and Sh4 billion from Nairobi County to strengthen collection and disposal systems.

The agreement also includes institutional reforms aimed at enhancing security, including the establishment of a Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit, expected to be operational within 60 days.

Governor Sakaja said the deal will accelerate implementation of the Nairobi Rising agenda, positioning the capital for improved service delivery, modern infrastructure, and stronger economic growth.