Despite rains, overflowing dams, water rationing to continue in Nairobi

Nairobi Water Managing Director, Nahashon Muguna, announced on Tuesday, November 28, that the dams supplying water to Nairobi were experiencing overflow. However, he clarified that despite the abundance of water, the treatment process remains a necessary step before reaching consumers.

“The water has to go through our water treatment plants that have a maximum production capacity of 525.6 million litres per day, against a demand of 870 million litres,” explained Muguna.

Nairobi City County relies on four primary water sources: Kikuyu Springs, Ruiru, Sasumua, and Thika Dams. Treatment occurs at Ngethu, Sasumua, Kabete, and Kikuyu Water Treatment Works, each with its production capacity.

Despite the dams overflowing, the water supply is constrained by the installed production capacity, leading to the continuation of water rationing in the city. Muguna outlined the company's commitment to maintaining an equitable water distribution program, aiming for each customer to receive water at least once a week.

To address the shortage, the National and County Governments, through the Athi Water Works Development Agency (AWWDA), are collaborating on the Northern Collector Tunnel Phase I Water Project. Expected to be commissioned in March 2024, this initiative intends to provide an additional 140 million litres of water to Nairobi daily.

Muguna highlighted, "We are committed to addressing the water needs of Nairobi residents, and these projects are significant steps towards achieving that goal."

Furthermore, the Karemenu Dam Water Project, nearing completion, is projected to supply 23 million litres of water per day to the city by the end of 2023. These projects collectively aim to improve water distribution, ensuring customers receive water at least three times a week.

In a significant move to fortify Nairobi's water infrastructure, both the city and national governments have secured Usd100 million in funding for the development of the Northern Collector Tunnel Phase II Project in Murang'a. Expected to be completed by 2026, this project aims to bring an additional 120 million litres of water per day to Nairobi.

Muguna added, "We are optimistic that these initiatives will go a long way in alleviating water scarcity challenges in Nairobi."

Additionally, the completion of the Maragua IV dam through Public-Private Partnerships in 2028 promises to augment the city's water supply by 130 million litres per day, further contributing to the sustainable water management strategy for Nairobi's growing population.