Nairobi is set to experience a significant water supply interruption, with a five-day shutdown commencing at 6:00 a.m. on April 6, 2026. This disruption is primarily due to planned works on the Northern Collector Tunnel 1 (NCT1) system, which are essential for linking the Kigoro Water Treatment Plant to the Gigiri and Kabete reservoirs.
Prior to this announcement, residents and businesses in Nairobi had anticipated a stable water supply, especially given the city’s critical role in contributing 60 percent of the national GDP. However, the decision to implement this interruption reflects the ongoing challenges the city faces in meeting water demand, exacerbated by population growth and aging infrastructure.
The shutdown will affect large areas of Nairobi, including the Central Business District, Westlands, Kilimani, Lavington, Ngara, Kileleshwa, Kibera, and the Industrial Area. Governor Sakaja Johnson acknowledged the inconvenience this will cause, stating, “We understand the disruption this will cause to residents and businesses, but these works are critical to securing Nairobi’s water future.”
Residents have been advised to store adequate water in advance and to use available supplies sparingly during the interruption. In response to the anticipated demand, water bowsers may be deployed to serve critical institutions such as hospitals and schools.
Once the upgrades are completed, Sakaja Johnson emphasized that they will significantly enhance supply capacity and reliability across the city. This project is part of a broader cooperation agreement valued at KSh 80 billion aimed at improving infrastructure in Nairobi.
As the city prepares for this disruption, the immediate effects on daily life and business operations are expected to be profound. With a daytime population of approximately 7 million, the impact on residents and businesses will be closely monitored.
Experts suggest that while the short-term inconvenience is notable, the long-term benefits of improved water supply reliability will outweigh the temporary challenges. The works are expected to address the persistent issues of water scarcity that have plagued Nairobi for years.
In summary, while the upcoming water supply interruption poses significant challenges for Nairobi’s residents and businesses, it also represents a crucial step towards a more reliable water future for the city.
