Nairobi residents are set to benefit from improved water distribution following the launch of the Gigiri–Karura–Outer Ring Road Transmission Pipeline Project, a major initiative aimed at enhancing water supply to the city’s eastern neighborhoods.
Implemented by the Athi Water Works Development Agency (AWWDA), the 8.4-kilometre DN1400 bulk transmission pipeline will deliver an additional 211 million litres of water per day, supporting projected demand of approximately 370 million litres per day and benefiting an estimated three million residents.
The project recently received a Special User License from the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), allowing controlled access to Karura Forest for a section of the works in line with environmental and forest conservation regulations. Construction within the forest will run along a three-kilometre corridor from Whispers Avenue to Kiambu Road (KFS Gate C), largely underground within an existing cycle track to minimise ecological disturbance.
Project planners have emphasized environmental safeguards, including selective vegetation clearance and mandatory tree replacement, with replanting and ecological restoration carried out in collaboration with Friends of Karura Forest. Construction in the forest is expected to take around four months, after which restoration will be completed following approved environmental management plans.
The project underwent a comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), involving public consultations with residents, forest user groups, and conservation organisations. Following the review process, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) granted environmental approval, with oversight continuing from KFS, NEMA, Friends of Karura Forest, and AWWDA.
Speaking after the approval, Eng. Joseph Kamau, AWWDA Chief Executive Officer, said:
“This transmission upgrade is a strategic intervention to strengthen bulk water conveyance and ensure 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. Our commitment is to deliver sustainable infrastructure that safeguards both ecological assets and public service delivery.”
The project is financed by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and represents a critical step toward long-term water resilience in Nairobi, ensuring the city’s growing population has access to reliable and sustainable water supply.
