KARURA-MUTHAIGA RESIDENTS DEMAND URGENT FLOOD ACTION PLAN
By Dr Griffin Lidahuli Kigudwa
Incoming MCA
15 September 2026
Residents call for immediate flood mapping, drainage works and community-based early warning systems as heavy rains threaten vulnerable neighbourhoods
Residents and stakeholders in Karura-Muthaiga Ward, Westlands Sub-County, are calling on Nairobi County and other relevant government agencies to urgently implement a comprehensive flood mitigation and preparedness plan amid growing concerns over recurring flooding in parts of the ward.
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| Photo Courtesy: Previous flooded River Gatathuru crossing Karura Forest |
The residents say the situation requires immediate intervention to protect lives, homes, livelihoods, public infrastructure and the environment.
Among the areas identified as particularly vulnerable is Githogoro informal settlement, especially sections around Astrol, where residents have repeatedly faced the effects of heavy rainfall and poor drainages.
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| Photo Courtesy: UN avenue was previously closed due to floods |
Parts of Karura Forest have also experienced flooding during periods of intense rainfall, with rivers and streams linked to the Getathuru system overflowing and affecting trails, bridges, caves, waterfalls and recreational areas.
Low-lying and river-adjacent sections along the Muthaiga fringe and surrounding residential areas are similarly considered vulnerable.
Calls for immediate assessment
Residents are demanding a detailed, ward-specific flood vulnerability assessment within 30 days.
The assessment should incorporate updated hydrological information, drainage audits and views from communities living in flood-prone areas. They are also calling for the findings to be made publicly available.
The community wants authorities to move beyond emergency responses and develop a long-term strategy addressing the underlying causes of flooding.
Drainage and infrastructure under spotlight
Desilting, expansion and regular maintenance of stormwater drainage systems and river channels have been identified as immediate priorities, particularly in Githogoro and other low-lying areas.
Residents are also calling for the inspection and reinforcement of bridges and pathways within Karura Forest to reduce risks to visitors and communities during periods of heavy rainfall.
Calls for protection of riparian areas
The residents are further urging authorities to enforce riparian buffer zones and prevent new encroachment along rivers and waterways.
For households already living in areas considered extremely vulnerable, they are calling for safe and voluntary relocation programmes, accompanied by appropriate compensation and alternative housing arrangements.
They argue that relocation efforts should prioritise human dignity and should not leave vulnerable families without viable alternatives.
Community early-warning system proposed
The proposed flood action plan also includes the establishment of community-based early-warning systems, clearly designated evacuation centres and regular emergency preparedness drills.
Residents want these systems coordinated with relevant national and county disaster-management agencies so that communities can receive timely warnings and know where to seek safety when flooding occurs.
Multi-agency taskforce demanded
The community is proposing the creation of a dedicated Karura-Muthaiga Flood Response Taskforce bringing together Nairobi County, Kenya Forest Service, relevant national government agencies and community representatives.
The taskforce would coordinate emergency response, infrastructure improvements, environmental protection and long-term flood mitigation.
Residents are also demanding dedicated funding for both immediate emergency interventions and sustainable infrastructure projects.
14-day deadline for an action plan
Perhaps the strongest demand is for transparency and accountability.
The residents want the relevant authorities to publish a comprehensive flood action plan within 14 days, setting out specific interventions, timelines, responsible agencies and measurable progress indicators.
They are further calling for quarterly public updates so that residents can monitor implementation.
The community argues that continued inaction could expose families to repeated displacement, property losses, infrastructure damage and serious public-safety risks.
With changing rainfall patterns, rapid urbanisation and increasing pressure on drainage and riparian systems, residents say flood preparedness must no longer be treated as a seasonal emergency but as a permanent public-safety priority.
The residents have, however, expressed their willingness to work with government agencies by providing local knowledge, participating in community monitoring and supporting constructive engagement.
Their message to authorities is clear: Karura-Muthaiga needs a flood preparedness and mitigation plan before the next disaster, not after it.