Ruto affirms Sh80bn City Hall deal on course
Nairobi
By
Pkemoi Ngénoh
| Apr 10, 2026
President William Ruto delivers a presidential address at the Nairobi County Assembly. [PCS]
President William Ruto yesterday outlined development progress in the city following the recent signing of a cooperation agreement between the county and the national government on February 17.
In the historic address in the county assembly, Ruto admitted that for years, the city has been choking in filth, poor roads, and water shortages, among other challenges.
Ruto detailed the progress, rollout plans, and implementation timelines under which some projects will be completed, lauding Governor Johnson Sakaja for his willingness to work with the national government.
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“In the next six months, Nairobi will be significantly brighter, safer, and more secure,” the President said.
He said that 100 acres of land has been hived off in Dandora for a modern waste processing facility, supported by an annual Sh2 billion allocation from the national government.
The project aims to transition Nairobi from basic garbage collection to a structured system of recycling and waste reuse.
Ruto said a section of the wall at the State House has been marked for demolition in the ongoing reclaiming of riparian land following recent floods that killed over 30 people in Nairobi.
Under the Sh80 billion agreement, Ruto said that in six months, installation of 50,000 new lights and repair of 40,000 existing ones will be completed.
"Connection of power to informal settlements, including Kibera, Korogocho, Mathare, and Kamukunji within three months," he stated.
The Head of State told the MCAs that the development of 247 kilometres is set to commence this month, alongside upgraded drainage systems to curb flooding.
To enhance security, President Ruto highlighted the ongoing rollout of a digital command centre and expanded CCTV surveillance.
To improve sanitation, the government is undertaking infrastructure works, including two parallel 27km sewer lines and a 60,000 cubic metre treatment plant, projects already underway.
Ruto further revealed that more than 360 housing units are under construction as part of the affordable housing programme, aimed at improving living conditions and modernising urban settlements.
Similarly, he challenged those opposing the development, insisting that the current agreement is not fashioned like the defunct Nairobi Metropolitan Services.
“It is contradictory to complain about flooding while opposing drainage improvements, or to demand cleanliness while tolerating illegal dumping," he stated
Ruto highlighted plans to modernise Gikomba Market, promising a comprehensive upgrade within six months under a phased redevelopment plan.
“It is unacceptable that traders in a capital city must wear gumboots to access such an important market,” he said.
Sakaja expressed confidence that the agreement, once fully implemented, will transform the city.