Nelson Marwa Named Nairobi Rivers Commission Chair in Fresh Appointment
NAIROBI, October 18, 2026 — President William Ruto has appointed former Devolution Principal Secretary and Coast Regional Commissioner Nelson Marwa as chairperson of the Nairobi Rivers Commission, replacing Bishop Margaret Wanjiru.
The change was formalised in Gazette Notice No. 16248, dated October 16, 2026. Marwa’s term is three years, beginning on October 16. The notice also revokes Wanjiru’s appointment, according to separate accounts published by The Star and Citizen Digital.
A commission facing a difficult cleanup
Nairobi’s river system carries consequences for neighborhoods far beyond the city centre. When waterways become clogged with solid waste or contaminated by untreated sewage, nearby communities can face flooding, unpleasant conditions and potential health hazards. River restoration therefore demands more than a single exercise to remove visible rubbish.
Improved collection of household and business waste, reliable wastewater treatment, enforcement against illegal discharge and protection of river corridors are all relevant to long-term results. Some interventions also require cooperation beyond Nairobi County because waterways cross administrative boundaries.
What to watch under new leadership
The important test is whether the commission can demonstrate measurable progress: fewer illegal dumping points, more functional sanitation infrastructure, clearer flood-risk management and open reporting on public spending. Residents affected by cleanups also need transparent information about proposed work and any relocation or enforcement decisions.
Marwa’s appointment changes the institution’s leadership, but the gazette notice does not by itself establish that particular restoration milestones have been delivered. That distinction matters when evaluating government announcements.
Featured image: File photograph of Nairobi’s skyline. It illustrates the city, not Marwa’s appointment ceremony.
Documentary basis
The appointment details were reported by The Star and Citizen Digital, both referring to Gazette Notice No. 16248. Analysis of river-system accountability is original explanatory context.
