In a rare move that puts State House at the center of its own environmental crackdown, President William Ruto has ordered the demolition of part of its perimeter wall after it was found to sit on protected riparian land.
Speaking at the Nairobi County Assembly on Thursday, April 9, 2026, the Head of State said a multi-agency team tasked with reclaiming riparian reserves had issued a notice over the encroachment.
The affected section lies along the Kirichwa Kubwa River, where the boundary wall extends into restricted land.
“State House has received a notice that part of the State House boundary wall along the Kirichwa Kubwa River falls within the riparian reserve. And it must come down,” Ruto said.
He told county leaders that the government would act on the directive without hesitation, making it clear that compliance with environmental rules applies across the board.
“They have told me at least 15 metres from the high mark. I promise you that wall will come down,” he added.
Riparian reserves are protected areas found next to rivers and waterways, where construction is limited to protect the environment and preserve water systems.
More to follow…