By William Abala
Nairobi, Kenya: Air quality in Nairobi has become a pressing concern, with the city grappling with fluctuating levels of pollution due to a range of factors.
As of 2000HRS on September 11, 2024, Nairobi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 66, indicating a “Moderate” level of pollution.
This means sensitive groups, such as individuals with respiratory conditions, should reduce outdoor activities to minimize exposure to pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5), which remains the primary pollutant in Nairobi’s air. PM2.5 levels reached 17 µg/m³, a figure that is currently 3.4 times the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended annual air quality guideline.
Nairobi City County Government has officially launched the Breathe Nairobi Initiative, a program aimed at tackling the city’s growing air pollution problem.
In a well-attended ceremony held at the Royal Tulip Hotel, senior county officials and key stakeholders from global organizations gathered to mark the beginning of what many have called a bold step toward a cleaner and healthier Nairobi.
In 2024, it is estimated that air pollution in Nairobi has contributed to approximately 1,100 deaths, with the financial toll on the city reaching around $170 million.
Sources of pollution in Nairobi are diverse, with the primary contributors being vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and the burning of waste. Older vehicles, particularly those with diesel engines, emit high levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and particulate matter.
Factories, many of which lack stringent emission controls, also release pollutants that significantly contribute to the city’s deteriorating air quality.
Nairobi’s most polluted areas highlight several contributing factors. Dandora Phase 4, home to one of East Africa’s largest dumpsites, registered an AQI of 115, categorizing and dubbed “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.” Similarly, Kenyatta University City Campus, Museum Expressway, and Kariobangi North Health Center reported AQI levels of 97, 92, and 90, respectively, underscoring elevated pollution levels in these densely populated and industrial zones.
Breathe Nairobi: A Local Solution to a Global Problem
The initiative, which is part of the larger global Breathe Cities movement spearheaded by the Clean Air Fund, C40 Cities, and Bloomberg Philanthropies, aims to implement innovative solutions to improve Nairobi’s air quality.
Nairobi City County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Green Nairobi, Maureen Njeri, acknowledged the critical role of international partners in making the initiative a reality.
“This moment marks the culmination of extensive effort, collaboration, and commitment,” Njeri stated. “The Breathe Nairobi Initiative places the City County Government at the center of implementation, ensuring a sustainable and locally-driven strategy to address air pollution.”
Nine Projects, Two Years
Spanning from September 2024 to August 2026, the initiative will roll out nine innovative projects designed to address the city’s air quality. While the specific timelines for each project may vary, the county government stated that the overall goal is to create long-lasting improvements.
“By empowering local governance, we are confident that the results will be impactful and enduring, creating lasting improvements in air quality for the residents of Nairobi,” Njeri added.
The initiative, widely supported by key partners such as UNEP, SEI-Africa, and Nairobi’s Air Quality Working Group, will see involvement from multiple sectors.
Transforming Nairobi’s Transport Systems
Speaking at the event, CECM for Mobility and Works, Ibrahim Nyangoya Auma, emphasized the role the transport sector plays in combating air pollution. “Air pollution in Nairobi is significantly impacted by the transport sector, with emissions contributing to harmful particulate matter and other pollutants,” Auma remarked.
He outlined the county’s plans to transition to electric buses and e-motorcycles, saying, “We are actively collaborating with our partners to promote sustainable and low-emission transport, which is key in reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.”
Auma further noted the importance of data-driven approaches, highlighting that low-cost sensors would be deployed across all 85 wards in Nairobi to monitor air quality in real time. “This initiative is a great milestone, and the Mobility and Works Sector is committed to incorporating this valuable data into transport planning to ensure a cleaner, healthier Nairobi.”
New Regulations to Drive Air Quality Improvements
The county government is also working on finalizing key transport policies, including the Low Emission Zones Regulations under the Nairobi City County Transport Act of 2020. These new regulations, expected to complement the Breathe Nairobi Strategy, will aim to integrate air quality objectives into future city planning.
“Incorporating air quality objectives into transportation policy ensures that future city planning aligns with Nairobi’s broader sustainability targets,” Auma said.
Promoting Non-Motorized Transport
In addition to electric vehicles, the county plans to encourage non-motorized transport by developing pedestrian-friendly streets and dedicated cycling lanes. Public campaigns promoting eco-friendly driving practices and sustainable mobility options will also be rolled out.
“These efforts are closely aligned with the community engagement and communication pillar of the Breathe Nairobi Strategy, fostering a culture of sustainable mobility while raising public awareness on air quality,” Auma explained.
Since the strategy’s validation in April 2024, according to Auma, Nairobi has made notable progress in building partnerships with both local and international organizations. “As we move forward, I encourage all stakeholders to remain engaged in our collective effort to create a cleaner, greener, and healthier Nairobi for all,” Auma concluded.
A Step Toward Sustainable Air Quality
The launch of the Breathe Nairobi Initiative signals Nairobi’s commitment to address one of its most pressing environmental challenges.
The air quality challenges in Nairobi have significant health implications. Prolonged exposure to pollutants like PM2.5 and NO2 can lead to chronic respiratory diseases, lung infections, and cardiovascular conditions.
Studies have shown a correlation between poor air quality and increased rates of asthma, ischemic heart disease, and premature aging of the lungs. Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable, with research indicating higher incidences of low birth weight and developmental issues among newborns in highly polluted areas.
