Several residents in key estates across the city will soon be connected to the sewer line, increasing sanitation, even as Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company (NCWSC) embarks on an ambitious project to expand sewer lines.

Works have already begun in various parts of the city and expected to be completed this financial year. During a recent site tour of Makongeni, Eastleigh, and Kawangware areas, where the expansion has already begun, NCWSC Chairperson Arnold Karanja emphasised the critical need for this project.

“Under the leadership of our Governor, Sakaja Johnson, we are now expanding the sewer lines in some areas of city to accommodate the rising number of people,” Mr. Karanja said.

Mr. Karanja confirmed plans are underway to extend the sewer lines within Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), including around the Supreme Court area. This expansion is part of a broader initiative to modernise the city’s sewer system.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja previously noted the sewer line expansion would be executed in phases, based on necessity.

“The design and planning of the city date back several decades, and the population has grown to over five million people daily. We shall roll out the expansion plan based on need,” Governor Sakaja stated, acknowledging the significant financial investment required for a comprehensive overhaul of the city’s sewer system.

In the coming days, several other areas in Nairobi are expected to be included in the expansion program, ensuring that the city’s infrastructure keeps pace with its dynamic growth.

He also noted Nairobi was working in collaboration with the national government to build affordable housing in Makongeni and NCWSC would ensure adequate sewer coverage.

“We have put in place plans to ensure that the new affordable housing developments are adequately serviced by the expanded sewer network,” he said.

Illegal water disconnections

Mr. Karanja was accompanied by NCWSC Managing Director Engineer Nahashon Muguna and the company’s board members.

Earlier in the week the company’s technical team undertook illegal water disconnections along Outer Ring Road and Donholm area where the water pipeline to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) had been tampered with to divert water impacting the airport.

NCWSC is looking to increase the water capacity in this financial year 2024/2025 by 160,000M3 daily with various investments.

Kawangware Sewer Rehabilitation works

One of the significant undertakings is the Kawangware Sewer Rehabilitation Works. The project involves the installation of a 5.8-kilometer sewer line with nominal diameters of 300 mm and 375 mm. This line is set to serve the Kabiru and Kawangware wards.

Currently, the project is 30% complete, with an anticipated completion date of June 2025. This upgrade is expected to significantly improve sanitation services in these densely populated areas.

Another crucial project nearing completion is the proposed sewer upgrade along Eastleigh’s 3rd Avenue. This project features a sewer pipeline with a nominal diameter ranging from 732 mm to 450 mm, stretching a total length of 600 meters.

The upgrade is designed to enhance the sewer system serving Kaloleni, Makongeni, and parts of the Industrial Area along Lusaka Road. Additionally, it will cater to the Shari Moyo and Bahati affordable housing projects. With 90% of the work already completed, the project is expected to be finalized by the end of 2024.

In Mowlem Ward, NWSC is constructing a new sewer line that will drain into the Nairobi River Trunk Sewer. The project spans 8 kilometers, with pipes ranging in diameter from 750 mm to 225 mm. The project includes both rehabilitation and the construction of new trunk sewers to serve the entire Mowlem Ward and Umoja III. This development is part of a broader strategy to improve drainage and sanitation across the city.

In addition to these major undertakings, NWSC is also working on sewer projects in Umoja I, Kayole North, Upper and Lower Savanna, and Embakasi Ward. These projects are part of a comprehensive plan to upgrade Nairobi’s sewer infrastructure, addressing the city’s growing population and its needs for improved sanitation services.

Chair Arnold Karanja emphasized the importance of these projects in enhancing Nairobi’s overall infrastructure. “The completion of these sewer lines will not only improve sanitation but also support the city’s broader urban development goals,” he said. “We are committed to delivering these projects on time to ensure that all residents benefit from improved sanitation services.”

As these projects progress, Nairobians can expect significant improvements in the city’s sewer systems, contributing to better health outcomes and a cleaner environment for all.