The Mombasa County Government has announced plans to restore the environmental health of Mtopanga River following years of pollution caused by improper waste disposal, encroachment on the riverbanks and discharge of untreated sewage.
The county says the pollution has raised concerns over the safety of water from the river, as well as the survival of aquatic life and the risk of flooding in surrounding areas.
Speaking before the Mombasa County Assembly, Environment Committee representative Milka Ngare said laboratory tests had established that water from Mtopanga River was not suitable for domestic use.
Ngare said the deteriorating condition of the river was also threatening aquatic organisms, including fish species such as tilapia and mudfish.
She attributed part of the problem to the narrowing and blockage of the river channel, which has reduced its capacity to carry rainwater during heavy downpours.
The situation, she warned, could increase the risk of flooding in areas located along the river, particularly during periods of intense rainfall.
As part of efforts to restore the river, the county government is supporting weekly clean-up exercises led by the Mtopanga River Community-Based Organisation.
The initiative also includes waste recycling and tree-planting activities aimed at improving the river’s ecosystem and reducing the amount of waste entering the waterway.
The county government is also working with the World Bank on measures to address flooding and improve environmental resilience in Mombasa.
Officials said environmental assessments would be conducted in Junda and Mtopanga to establish the extent of environmental degradation and identify appropriate restoration measures.
The county is further planning to establish a joint committee involving relevant stakeholders to oversee the restoration of Mtopanga River.
Other measures include surveying and formally identifying the river’s riparian reserve, preventing further encroachment and setting aside funds for conservation activities.
The Environment Department said the success of the restoration programme would depend on sustained funding, enforcement of environmental laws and cooperation between the county government and residents.
Officials have urged communities living near the river to take part in conservation efforts and avoid activities that could further pollute or obstruct the waterway.
The restoration plan comes amid growing concerns over the impact of unplanned development, poor waste management and inadequate drainage systems on Mombasa’s waterways.
The county government says protecting Mtopanga River will not only improve the local environment but also help reduce flood risks and safeguard aquatic ecosystems for surrounding communities.
