Nyeri clears drains ahead of rains
A multi-agency clean-up and drainage-clearing exercise has been carried out across Nyeri Town as local stakeholders step up preparations for the anticipated heavy rains.
The initiative, dubbed “Clear the Way, Save Nyeri – Keep Our Drainages Open Before the Rains,” brought together the County Government of Nyeri through Nyeri Municipality, NYEWASCO, the Kenya National Secretaries Association (KENASA) and Nyeri Maximum Prison.
The exercise aimed to address blocked drainage channels and accumulated waste that could obstruct the movement of stormwater during periods of heavy rainfall. Participants worked together to clear drainage systems in different parts of the town, helping to improve water flow and reduce the potential risk of flooding.
The clean-up exercise was officially flagged off at the Nyeri Town Hall grounds by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, who joined other stakeholders in supporting the initiative. Following the launch, participating teams moved to various designated areas across the town to undertake drainage clearing and environmental clean-up activities.
The areas targeted included Kenyatta Road, Kimathi Way, Gakere Road, the Rubis area and Masandukuni, among other sections of Nyeri Town.
The exercise comes as authorities and stakeholders seek to strengthen the town’s preparedness for the rainy season. Blocked drainage systems can prevent stormwater from flowing efficiently, increasing the risk of waterlogging and flooding in urban areas. Removing waste and other obstructions from drainage channels is therefore an important part of maintaining functional stormwater infrastructure.
Beyond flood preparedness, the initiative also sought to promote a cleaner and safer urban environment. The removal of accumulated waste from public spaces and drainage channels is expected to contribute to improved environmental conditions while supporting public health and urban cleanliness.
NYEWASCO’s participation highlighted the importance of collaboration between water service providers, county authorities, institutions and residents in addressing environmental and water-related challenges.
Stakeholders also called on residents and businesses to play their part by disposing of waste responsibly and avoiding activities that result in garbage being deposited in drainage channels.
Maintaining open drainage systems, they noted, requires continued community participation rather than relying solely on periodic clean-up exercises.
The joint initiative therefore served both as a preparedness measure ahead of the rains and as a reminder to the Nyeri community about the importance of responsible waste management.
Through continued collaboration and public participation, stakeholders hope to strengthen Nyeri Town’s resilience to heavy rainfall while promoting a cleaner, healthier and safer environment for residents and businesses.
