“Waititu Was Right” – Wahome Thuku Ignites National Debate After Floods Rage in Nairobi City

High Court Advocate Wahome Thuku has sparked fresh debate on Nairobi’s flood crisis after suggesting that a controversial idea once proposed by former Kiambu governor Ferdinand Waititu may have had merit.

In a post shared on his Facebook account, Thuku wrote: “I think Waititu was right, we should move Nairobi River away from Grogon.”

His remarks come at a time when Nairobi is grappling with severe flooding following heavy rains that have caused deaths, destruction of property and displacement of residents.

The statement quickly attracted attention online because it revived a proposal that had previously been widely criticized and dismissed as unrealistic.

Years ago, Waititu suggested relocating sections of the Nairobi River away from areas such as Grogan Road.

At the time, the proposal was mocked by many Kenyans who considered it impractical and symbolic of poor urban planning ideas.

However, the current floods sweeping through parts of Nairobi have prompted renewed reflection on how the city manages its waterways.

Overflowing rivers and blocked drainage systems have worsened the flooding situation, particularly in low-lying areas and neighborhoods located near river channels.

Thuku’s comments suggest that rather than dismissing unconventional ideas outright, authorities may need to reconsider long-term strategies for managing Nairobi’s rivers and stormwater systems.

Urban experts have often pointed to unplanned settlements, garbage dumping and encroachment along riverbanks as major contributors to the city’s flooding problems.

When rivers swell during heavy rains, the water has little space to flow naturally, forcing it into residential areas and roads.

By referencing Waititu’s earlier remarks, Thuku appears to be highlighting the need for bold conversations about urban design and environmental management.

Whether moving a river is realistic or not, the discussion raises broader questions about how Nairobi should protect residents from recurring floods.

For many city dwellers, the latest disaster has once again exposed the urgent need for better drainage, stricter enforcement of riverbank protections and long-term planning.

As the city recovers from the floods, Thuku’s comments have reopened a conversation that many thought had long been settled.

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