Nairobi water utility records historic Sh11.7 billion in annual revenue amid service reforms

The Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company has recorded unprecedented revenue growth, collecting Sh11.7 billion in the 2024/2025 financial year, its highest annual income to date and a clear indication that ongoing reforms are yielding results.

This marks a steady rise from Sh10.75 billion in 2023/2024 and Sh9.46 billion in 2022/2023.

The utility had previously been stuck at around Sh8 billion in yearly collections before new leadership took over in 2022. Since then, the company has consistently improved both revenue performance and operational efficiency.

Governor Sakaja Johnson confirmed the record collections and pointed to a series of reforms introduced since he took office.

“In just three years, the utility has grown its revenue by nearly Sh4 billion from Sh8 billion to Sh11.7 billion, thanks to improved systems and digitisation of services. In the new financial year starting today, we will engage Nairobians more on the impact of illegal water connections, as part of efforts to curb non-revenue water,” he said.

NCWSC Chairman Arnold Karanja attributed the sharp revenue rise to better infrastructure, upgraded systems, and consistent growth year after year.

“If you look at the statistics since 2022, that’s an impressive 24 per cent growth in just two years. The Sh11.7 billion collected is not only historic but also reflects a consistent rise of over Sh1 billion in additional revenue each year,” he said.

In June 2025, the company recorded its highest-ever monthly billing at Sh1.08 billion.

“This is partly due to Nairobians reporting leaks, sewer bursts, and illegal water connections. Another contributing factor is the installation of new meters and the replacement of old ones to ensure accurate billing,” Karanja explained.

During Sakaja’s first full year in office, FY 2022/2023, the company collected Sh9.46 billion, a 16.7 per cent rise from Sh8.11 billion the previous year. In 2023/2024, revenue increased by 13.6 per cent to Sh10.75 billion. With the just-ended 2024/2025 financial year closing at Sh11.75 billion, the utility has now reached a new monthly average of Sh979 million, its highest ever.

Water supply has also improved following the activation of the Northern Water Collector Tunnel, which now channels over 140 million litres of water daily into the city’s network.

“The tunnel project is injecting an additional 140 million litres of water daily into Nairobi’s distribution system, significantly easing the city’s water shortage. Pressure has improved, and areas that previously had no access to water are now experiencing more frequent and consistent supply,” the governor added.

NCWSC has also introduced digital tools to improve service delivery and customer participation.

“We are digital. Did you know you can now read your water meter? Just dial *260# and follow the simple steps to track your usage in seconds. This innovation has played a significant role in improving revenue collection,” Karanja noted.

Internally, the company is also enhancing staff wellbeing through supportive policies and training.

Other Topics To Read

• City Affairs
• Nairobi
• Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company
• Water
• Governor Sakaja Johnson
• illegal water connections
• Arnold Karanja
• Nairobi water utility records historic Sh11.7 billion in annual revenue amid service reforms
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“The Board recently approved a policy on Alcohol, Drugs, and Substance Abuse. It aims to support staff through employee assistance programs post-rehabilitation, helping them avoid relapse and reintegrate into the workplace,” the company stated.

The Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company now says it will continue strengthening reforms, focusing on better service, reducing non-revenue water, and maintaining a strong partnership with Nairobi residents