About Safer Nairobi Initiative

CITY OF CHOICE PROJECT

          The Safer Nairobi Initiative is a project coordinating office between the UN HABITAT and the Nairobi City County Government. The Initiative has been active in making a case for the UN-Habitat Safer Cities Programme approach to  safety in Nairobi City and has popularized the concept of crime prevention in neighborhoods and at the city level. The City of Choice Project is a project under the Initiative that aims to provide migrant, refugee, and receiving communities with green jobs and partner with them to make the city’s waterways and public spaces greener and safer for everyone.

            The purpose of the project is to facilitate Nairobi’s green and equitable transition by institutionalizing inclusive climate actions that provide access to employment and self-employment for migrants, refugees, internally displaced people (IDPs) as well as marginalized receiving communities.


  • Our Vision

    To make Nairobi the city of order and dignity; Hope and Opportunities for all.


  • Our Mission

    Urban Resilience -To increase the resilience of city residents in the face of climate hazards and climate displacement, particularly addressing the needs and vulnerabilities of marginalized communities, including migrants, displaced people, and lower income groups. Urban Inclusion -To ensure the protection and inclusion of people who move into cities, including those in the context of natural disasters and climate displacement. Urban Transformation -Deliver a green and just transition in part

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Our team

Meet the team behind
our success story

Joystella Etyang

Finance Officer

I am a seasoned finance professional with a proven track record of empowering marginalised and vulnerable groups within the informal settlements of Nairobi. My unwavering focus on inclusivity and socioeconomic independence has been instrumental in fostering financial resilience within these communities. I bring a wealth of financial expertise to the table, committed to driving positive change and sustainable financial empowerment for the underserved.

Joe Aketch

Monitoring & Evaluation Officer

As the former Mayor of the City of Nairobi, I am dedicated to foster a safer and more inclusive urban environment for all, with a particular focus on marginalised and vulnerable. I champion integral policy concerns to address the unique challenges faced by migrants, IDPS, and refugees. My commitment extends beyond rhetoric, as I actively spearhead initiatives to provide them with a voice and participation in every decision-making processes through outreach and advocacy .

Ashleigh Cateline

Landscape Architect and Designer Intern

A passionate and avid graduate Landscape Architect and Designer, endorsing intentionality and aesthetics in design. Working together with community members to regenerate and restore the Nairobi Rivers ecosystems, and enhance the quality of life of the urban population.

Humphrey Otieno

Project Coordinator

Social Science and Human Rights Expert with passion to promote inclusion, diversity, and sustainable development of migrants, IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons), and refugees in Nairobi. This is implemented through equitable access to resources and social integration and collaboration between local communities, governments, and NGOs by developing initiatives like language and vocational training, cultural exchange programs, and policies addressing their unique needs.

Mercy Akeyo

Project Officer Administrator

A dedicated community development expert with experience in empowering diverse and marginalized groups. Proven track record in policy formulation and addressing climate-related concerns to foster socioeconomic independence. Committed to inclusivity for all, ensuring equitable opportunities for vulnerable populations. A results-oriented professional, driven by the belief that community engagement is the cornerstone of sustainable development. Passionate about creating positive change.