ISK Calls for Clarity, Compensation Amid Nairobi River Demolitions

By Ayubu John Afrimedia news Nairobi, Kenya — May 2026
The Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK) has called for urgent clarity, consistency, and fairness in the ongoing enforcement of riparian reserve regulations following recent demolitions along the Nairobi River corridors under the Nairobi Rivers Regeneration Project.

In a statement, ISK said it supports government efforts to restore rivers, protect water bodies, and reduce flooding in line with environmental goals and the Constitution of Kenya, 2010. However, the institution raised concern over the recent demolitions of buildings along riverbanks in areas such as Kileleshwa, Westlands, and Mathare, which have left property owners counting significant losses.
The surveyors’ body noted that while the crackdown targets encroachment on riparian reserves, the lack of uniform measurement standards and conflicting interpretations of river boundaries have created confusion. ISK warned that different definitions—such as riverbank, centerline, and high-water mark—have led to disputes over what constitutes riparian land.

“Enforcement must be guided by clear, consistent, and scientifically backed standards,” ISK said, adding that fragmentation in laws governing land and environment has worsened the uncertainty.

The institution emphasized that riparian reserves do not automatically translate into public ownership and that lawful property rights must be respected. It further insisted that where land has been legally acquired and developed, due process must be followed, including proper notices, valuation, and compensation.

Recent demolitions along the Nairobi River have sparked mixed reactions from residents, civil society groups, and professionals, with some questioning whether affected property owners were adequately compensated or fairly treated under the law.

ISK further noted that flooding in Nairobi is driven by multiple factors beyond encroachment, including poor drainage systems, waste dumping, and rapid urbanization.

The institution has called for a unified national policy on riparian management, harmonized measurement standards, and a structured compensation framework to balance environmental restoration with protection of constitutional property rights.

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