Nairobi is poised to see a major improvement in its water supply as the Athi Water Works Development Agency (AWWDA) kicks off construction of the Gigiri–Karura–Outer Ring Road Transmission Pipeline, following clearance from the Kenya Forest Service to work within a section of Karura Forest.
The 8.4-kilometre pipeline is set to deliver an extra 211 million litres of water daily, which will benefit over three million residents in the eastern parts of the city.
The project, financed jointly by the Government of Kenya and the French Development Agency, will connect the Gigiri Reservoir to Karura Reservoir before continuing to the Outer Ring Road area.
A three-kilometre stretch of the line will be installed underground along an existing cycle track within Karura Forest. This route was carefully chosen to reduce disruption to the environment, and the project will ensure that any trees affected are replaced according to Kenya Forest Service guidelines.
AWWDA Chief Executive Officer Joseph Kamau described the project as essential for securing Nairobi’s long-term water reliability.
“This transmission upgrade is a strategic intervention to strengthen bulk water conveyance and ensure a reliable supply to Eastern Nairobi as demand continues to grow. We recognise the environmental significance of Karura Forest and have carefully designed the works to utilise existing corridors, minimise disturbance and ensure full restoration," he said.
Before construction began, the project underwent a detailed Environmental and Social Impact Assessment to identify potential risks to the forest and define measures to mitigate them.
Public consultations were held in line with the Environmental Management and Coordination Act and National Environment Management Authority requirements, allowing residents, conservation groups, and neighbouring communities to provide feedback that shaped the project design.
Work inside the forest is expected to last about four months, after which affected areas will be restored according to the approved environmental plan. When completed, the pipeline will help meet the city’s growing water demand, projected at around 370 million litres per day, addressing the challenges of rapid urban growth and ensuring a more dependable supply across Nairobi.