Komb Green Solutions
The Pitch
Komb Green Solutions improved Nairobi’s climate-preparedness through a suite of restoration and food system solutions that involved residents in sustainable action.
The Problem
The Nairobi River floods after major rain events, causing destruction to communities living near the river. Climate change will intensify the frequency of these events.
The Process
- Restored riparian areas along riverbanks and cleaned the Nairobi River
- Created new public spaces (such as parks and recreational zones) and ensured that they were accessible to the elderly, children and people with disabilities
- Installed urban gardens and aquaponic programs
- Organized recycling and composting initiatives to divert waste from landfills
- Included underserved populations in the decision-making process to shape project priorities and ensure that the benefits of climate resilience measures reach all communities
- Ran educational and job training programs to increase job opportunities and environmental awareness
The Impact
- Decreased flood risks for low-income communities living near the riverbanks through river restoration
- Improved food security and decreased grocery expenses among low-income households through the creation of new gardens and aquaponic systems
- Decreased the amount of garbage in public spaces, creating healthier living conditions
- Increased residents’ understanding of climate resilience and adoption of sustainable practices
- Provided new green job opportunities to low-income communities
- Improved social cohesion through the restoration of public, recreational and natural spaces
- Reached all 17 sub-counties of Nairobi County, spreading to rural areas despite its urban origins because of the resonance and replicability within the project
