NAIROBI, Kenya — Nairobi Rivers Commission chairperson Margaret Wanjiru has submitted her resignation, ending a 20-month tenure leading the body tasked with rehabilitating the capital’s waterways.
In a letter addressed to Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, Wanjiru provided a 30-day notice effective August 31. “The time has come for me to move on and give my full attention to other work,” she wrote.
The former Starehe Member of Parliament described her time at the commission as an important learning experience and thanked Koskei for the opportunity to serve. “During the 20 months that I have worked in NRC, I have learnt a lot, and I appreciate you for giving me this opportunity,” she said.
Wanjiru requested that Koskei facilitate the appointment of her successor before her departure to ensure a smooth transition and handover. She also asked him to convey her gratitude to President William Ruto for entrusting her with the leadership role. “Let him know I appreciate the opportunity he gave me, and hope we can collaborate on other matters in future,” she added.
The nature of Wanjiru’s next professional engagement remains unclear. She did not respond to requests for further comment on her decision.
Her departure comes as the government continues to pursue its Nairobi rivers restoration and regeneration agenda, with the commission playing a central role in coordinating rehabilitation efforts across the city’s waterways.
President Ruto appointed Wanjiru chairperson through a Gazette Notice dated October 25, 2024, following the transfer of the commission from the Office of the President to the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development. She succeeded Pamela Olet, who was removed from the position.
The resignation triggers the formal process of appointing a new chairperson as the government seeks to maintain continuity in the commission’s work. Wanjiru’s request for a successor to be named before her exit is intended to facilitate an orderly handover during a critical phase of the rivers restoration programme.