Nairobi County has waived application and approval requirements for minor building repairs ahead of the expected heavy rains.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja said the waiver will allow residents to install gutters and undertake minor repairs to their homes and compounds without going through the usual approval processes.
“As Nairobi prepares for the anticipated El Niño rains, I have waived the application and approval processes for minor building repairs until the onset of the rains,” Sakaja said.
Kenya is bracing for heavy and above-average rainfall and potential flooding during the October to December 2026 short-rains season, amid strengthening El Niño conditions.
Sakaja on Wednesday supervised multi-agency preparedness efforts in areas including Infinity, Bunyala Road, Makadara and Mowlem.
The county has deployed additional machinery to widen and deepen drainage channels, desilt waterways and clear drainage corridors as part of measures to reduce the risk of flooding.
Sakaja said illegal dumping remains a major challenge to the city’s flood preparedness efforts.
He warned that individuals found dumping waste illegally will face tough action, while private waste collectors found dumping waste in open spaces risk having their licences permanently withdrawn.
“Our preparedness efforts are being coordinated through a ‘One County, One Plan, One Command’ approach, working with national government and humanitarian agencies,” Sakaja said.
The governor urged residents to take early measures to protect their homes and neighbourhoods ahead of the rains.
“I urge Nairobians to prepare early by keeping drainage channels clear, installing gutters and taking necessary precautions as we work together to keep our city safe,” he said.
Residents can report flooding and other emergencies through the county’s dedicated hotline 1508.
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