NAIROBI, Kenya- Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company has reduced water production at two major treatment plants by 35 percent following a sharp decline in water levels at Thika/Ndakaini Dam.
The reduction at the Ngethu and Kigoro water treatment plants took effect immediately, with the utility warning that customers should expect longer water-rationing periods in Nairobi and several neighbouring areas.
In a public notice, Nairobi Water said below-average rainfall in the dam’s catchment area had reduced inflows into Thika/Ndakaini Dam, the principal water source for Nairobi and its surrounding areas.
The company said it had temporarily cut water abstraction to preserve available reserves and sustain supply in the coming months.
Longer rationing expected
The production cut is expected to affect customers served by Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company, Kiambu Water and Sanitation Company, Mavoko Water and Sewerage Company, Olkejuado Water and Sewerage Company, Githunguri Water and Sanitation Company, Karuri Water and Sanitation Company, and Oloolaiser Water and Sewerage Company.
Nairobi Water said the cut does not signal a complete supply shutdown but cautioned that consumers will face extended rationing as the utility manages reduced production volumes.
“The reduced inflows have necessitated a temporary reduction in water abstraction to preserve available reserves and ensure continued supply over the coming months,” the company said.
The notice did not give a specific timeline for the restoration of normal production, saying this would depend on water levels at the dam and prevailing weather conditions.
Residents urged to conserve water
Nairobi Water urged households, institutions and businesses in affected areas to use available water prudently as it continues to monitor the situation.
The utility said it would periodically review production volumes based on changing dam levels and rainfall patterns in the catchment area.
Residents have also been asked to store water responsibly during supply hours, repair leaks and avoid non-essential uses such as washing vehicles and excessive irrigation.
The company apologised for the disruption and appealed for patience, understanding and cooperation from customers as it manages the reduced supply.
Customers can contact Nairobi Water through its toll-free line, 0800 724 366, for water-supply inquiries.
