President William Ruto has appointed former Principal Secretary Nelson Marwa as the new chairperson of the Nairobi Rivers Commission, replacing Bishop Margaret Wanjiru.

The appointment was announced in a Kenya Gazette notice dated October 16, 2026, with Marwa expected to serve a three-year term.

The leadership change comes as the government continues efforts to rehabilitate Nairobi’s rivers and address environmental challenges affecting the capital.

Marwa Returns to the Spotlight

Marwa is a former Principal Secretary who previously served in the Ministry of Devolution under retired President Uhuru Kenyatta.

He has also held several senior administrative positions, including Coast Regional Coordinator and Mombasa County Commissioner.

His appointment places him in charge of coordinating the commission’s work on the restoration and protection of Nairobi’s river system.

Wanjiru Exits the Commission

Marwa takes over from Bishop Margaret Wanjiru, whose appointment as chairperson has been revoked.

Wanjiru had previously indicated her intention to leave the position to focus on other commitments. She has also declared interest in contesting the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election.

Her departure marks a change in leadership at the commission as the government continues its river rehabilitation programme.

Focus on Nairobi River Restoration

The Nairobi Rivers Commission is involved in efforts to rehabilitate and protect the capital’s waterways, which have faced challenges including pollution, improper waste disposal and encroachment along riverbanks.

The restoration programme requires coordination among government agencies, environmental authorities, county officials and communities living near the rivers.

Marwa’s appointment comes as these efforts continue, with the commission expected to coordinate activities aimed at improving the condition of Nairobi’s river system.

His three-year term will place him at the centre of the commission’s work during the period.

Further details on the commission’s priorities under the new leadership have not been confirmed in the information cited for this report.