KSh3 Billion Western Nairobi Water Project to Benefit Over 300,000 Residents
AWWDA CEO Eng. Joseph Kamau (second right), flanked by Corporation Secretary Joyce Mukururi (right), with Pan Nan, and Liao Huihuang during the signing of the landmark partnership.
Residents in Nairobi’s western corridor are set to receive improved access to clean water and sanitation following the launch of a KSh 3 billion infrastructure project aimed at addressing long-standing supply and sewerage challenges in rapidly expanding urban areas.
The contract for the Western Nairobi Water and Sewerage Project was signed at the Athi Water Works Development Agency, marking the start of works expected to enhance water reliability for more than 300,000 people.
Funded in partnership with the French Development Agency, the project targets critical infrastructure gaps while strengthening urban water security in Nairobi.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, AWWDA Chief Executive Officer Eng. Joseph Kamau said the initiative aligns with the government’s broader goal of delivering sustainable and equitable water and sanitation services.
“The project builds on gains made by the Northern Collector Tunnel to optimize storage infrastructure and strengthen bulk transmission capacity within the Nairobi Metropolitan area. By expanding transmission lines, increasing storage and extending sewer networks, we are improving network stability and preparing the system to meet growing demand,” he said, adding that implementation will follow strict technical standards within a 24-month timeline.
The project will serve residents in Kangemi, Kawangware, Dagoretti and Riruta, with extensions to fast-growing zones such as Uthiru, Kinoo and Karen Plains, as well as Kabiria, Ngando and Kirigu. These neighbourhoods have experienced rapid urbanisation, placing pressure on ageing water and sewer systems.
The works, awarded to a joint venture between Zhongmei Engineering Group and Hunan Construction Investment, include construction of a 19.7-kilometre high-capacity transmission pipeline from Kabete to Olesereni. A 5,500-cubic-metre reinforced concrete storage tank will also be built in Karen to stabilise supply and improve distribution across the western corridor.
In addition, the project will deliver 63 kilometres of new sewer reticulation lines, improving sanitation services for an estimated 250,000 residents. Officials say the upgraded system will reduce public health risks, protect the environment and enhance living standards in the targeted communities.
The Western Nairobi Water and Sewerage Project underscores the government’s commitment to expanding resilient water and sanitation infrastructure to meet the demands of a growing urban population while advancing national development priorities.
