Sakaja Warns Nairobi Dam Is Full, Urges Immediate Evacuation to Save Lives

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has issued a strong warning to residents living near Nairobi Dam, saying the situation has reached a critical level and poses a serious danger to human life. 

He stressed that the matter should not be viewed through a political lens, but as an urgent safety concern that requires immediate action.

Speaking during a public address, Sakaja said the dam is now at full capacity following continued heavy rains. 

He warned that if the water levels rise further or if the structure is put under more pressure, nearby areas could face flooding, putting homes and lives at risk.

“This is a safety issue, not politics,” the governor said firmly. “Residents must move to safer areas immediately. Saving lives comes first.”

The warning comes at a time when parts of Nairobi have been experiencing heavy rainfall, leading to rising water levels in rivers and dams.

Nairobi Dam, which has in the past faced challenges such as poor maintenance and pollution, is now under close monitoring by county officials.

Sakaja explained that the county government has been assessing the situation and found that the risk is too high to ignore.

He said emergency teams are on standby and working to guide residents on safe evacuation routes.

Those living closest to the dam have been advised to leave immediately to avoid being caught in a possible disaster.

The governor acknowledged that moving from one’s home is not easy, especially for families who have lived in the area for years.

However, he emphasized that protecting life must come before everything else.

He urged residents to cooperate with authorities and follow instructions from emergency teams.

Sakaja also called on leaders and the public to avoid turning the situation into a political debate.

He said arguments and blame games will not help in a moment when quick decisions are needed to protect lives.

Instead, he encouraged unity and cooperation among all stakeholders.

Experts have warned that when a dam reaches its maximum capacity, the risk of overflow or structural failure increases, especially if rainfall continues.

In such cases, nearby communities can be exposed to sudden flooding, which can cause injuries, loss of property, and even deaths.

The county government is also working with national agencies to manage the situation and reduce the pressure on the dam.

Measures such as controlled water release and clearing of drainage systems are being considered to prevent further risk.

Residents living in low-lying areas around the dam have been urged to remain alert and report any signs of danger, such as cracks, unusual water flow, or rising water levels.

Community leaders have also been asked to help spread the message and ensure that no one is left behind during evacuation.