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The County Government of Machakos County has intensified efforts to protect residents and restore environmental order through a major operation to reclaim public and riparian land that had been illegally occupied and developed.
The exercise, spearheaded by the Department of Lands, Housing, Urban Development and Roads under the leadership of CECM Hon. Nathaniel Nganga, followed a comprehensive assessment conducted by technical officers and the issuance of eviction notices to illegal occupants encroaching on critical waterways and public reserves.
The intervention comes in the wake of recent heavy rains that caused devastating floods in Githunguri Airways, leading to the tragic loss of one life and renewed concerns from residents over blocked drainage systems and illegal developments along riverbanks.
Residents had appealed to H.E. Governor Wavinya Ndeti to take decisive action against the growing encroachment on riparian reserves, which has continued to expose families to flooding risks during rainy seasons.
Speaking during the operation, county officials emphasized that the reclaiming of riparian land is aimed at restoring the natural flow of water, enhancing public safety, protecting lives and property, and preventing future disasters linked to unlawful developments on waterways.
The operation also demonstrated the county administration’s commitment to enforcing planning regulations and safeguarding public land for the benefit of current and future generations.
Governor Wavinya Ndeti has been widely praised for her bold and proactive leadership in addressing long-standing environmental and urban planning challenges affecting residents across the county. Her administration’s swift response to public concerns following the floods has been viewed as a strong demonstration of a government that prioritizes the safety and welfare of its people.
Under her leadership, Machakos County continues to champion sustainable urban development, environmental conservation, and disaster preparedness measures aimed at building safer and more resilient communities.
Present during the exercise were Area MCA Hon. Dominic Maitha and Municipal Manager Mr. Justus Kitengu, alongside county enforcement officers and technical teams overseeing the restoration works.
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