Emphasising Ecosystems, Elevating People (3EP) is a collaborative project led by KDI in partnership with UN-Habitat and ICLEI Cities Biodiversity Centre to regenerate Nairobi’s river systems, starting with the Ngong River Basin.
By integrating Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) and Nature-based Solutions (NbS), the project demonstrated how climate resilience, biodiversity restoration, and inclusive urban planning can go hand in hand. Working with government agencies, civil society, and local communities, 3EP set a precedent for more sustainable, community-driven river regeneration.
context
Across Nairobi’s informal settlements, river degradation from pollution, flooding, and unregulated urbanization threatens both people and ecosystems. Many of the city’s most vulnerable communities live along waterways, facing climate risks, displacement, and limited infrastructure. 3EP addressed these challenges by embedding nature-based solutions into urban planning, ensuring that regeneration efforts prioritize both environmental restoration and human well-being.
process
The project combined basin-wide assessments, capacity-building workshops, and participatory planning to design adaptable solutions for Kibera, Mukuru, and Kayole Soweto. When mass evictions in April 2024 disrupted planned activities in Mukuru, the project shifted to focus on advocacy and long-term capacity-building to support ongoing resilience efforts. In Kibera, a Rivers + People Vision Plan and a community manifesto were developed to push for a more inclusive approach to river regeneration.
solution
3EP strengthened city-wide efforts, including the Nairobi Rivers Regeneration Programme, by providing a community-led, evidence-based model for integrating EbA and NbS. An NbS intervention in Mukuru improved floodwater management and biodiversity, demonstrating how small-scale, community-driven solutions can complement larger government-led initiatives.
impact
Beyond Nairobi, 3EP offers a scalable framework for urban climate resilience that can inform river regeneration efforts across Kenya and East Africa. By embedding nature-based solutions, participatory planning, and advocacy into urban development, the project has built momentum for more inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient cities.
