The ambitious Nairobi Regeneration initiative is feeling the pinch, Environment CS Keriako Tobiko has revealed.
The Environment CS, who appeared before the parliamentary committee on Thursday, said only Sh110 million was allocated for the regeneration programme.
“This is the amount we have been trying to see how to appropriate and focus it appropriately. We have settled on the Nairobi river because it’s part of the Nairobi regeneration initiative,” Tobiko said.
Mr Tobiko further dismissed claims that Sh800 million had been allocated for the exercise.
“I wish it was Sh800 million as Hon [Ben] Washiali said,” Tobiko said.
The Mumias East MP had faulted the environment ministry saying it had little to show for the Sh800 million allocated.
Noting that there are challenges in regenerating the city on such a small budget, Tobiko invited the committee for a tour of Nairobi River.
“I invite the chair and committee members one of these days to go with us from the source to the end of the Nairobi River ecosystem and you will realize the complicity and challenge that we have particularly from the informal settlements.”
The CS said the biggest challenge is the lack of sanitation facilities in the informal settlements and slum areas.
“And we have also public entities that are discharging effluent into the river,” Tobiko added.
On the demolition of buildings constructed on public land and riparian reserves, Tobiko denied claims that the exercise was being done selectively.
He said a report on Seefar Apartments is yet to be completed by an independent expert.
“Hopefully, we will be able to have this matter concluded before the expiration of the 90 day extension period of the demolition notice,” he said.
