NAIROBI WATER RATIONING GETS WORSE AGAIN AS DAM LEVELS DECLINE
Residents of Nairobi are facing another difficult period of water shortages as the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company announces extended rationing following a significant decline in water levels at Thika/Ndakaini Dam.
The latest development has raised concerns among households, businesses and institutions that depend on regular water supply, with authorities warning that consumers should prepare for longer periods without running water.
In a public notice issued on November 9, 2026, Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company announced an immediate 35 per cent reduction in water production at the Ngethu and Kigoro Water Treatment Plants. The company attributed the decision to below-average rainfall in the dam's catchment area, which has reduced the amount of water flowing into the reservoir.
According to the utility company, reducing water abstraction is necessary to preserve the remaining reserves and maintain supply over the coming months.
SEVERAL COUNTRIES TO FEEL THE IMPACT
The latest reduction is expected to affect not only Nairobi residents but also communities in neighbouring countries.
Other affected water service providers include Githunguri Water and Sanitation Company, Kiambu Water and Sanitation Company, Karuri Water and Sanitation Company, Mavoko Water and Sewerage Company, Oloolaiser Water and Sewerage Company, and Olkejuado Water and Sewerage Company.
The affected communities may experience longer intervals between water supply schedules as the providers adjust distribution to cope with the reduced production.
HOUSEHOLDS AND BUSINESSES FACE FRESH CHALLENGES
The worsening situation could create additional financial pressure for families and businesses, particularly those that rely on consistent water supply for their daily operations.
Restaurants, hotels, schools, hospitals and small businesses may be forced to spend more on alternative water sources. Households without adequate storage facilities could also find it difficult to manage basic activities such as cooking, cleaning and maintaining proper hygiene.
For low-income residents, purchasing water from private vendors may further increase the cost of living.
AUTHORITIES URGE RESIDENTS TO CONSERVE WATER
Nairobi Water has appealed to customers to use available water responsibly, avoid unnecessary wastage and prioritise essential needs.
The company also confirmed that it is monitoring dam levels and prevailing weather conditions, adding that production volumes would be reviewed periodically depending on reservoir recovery.
However, no specific date has been announced for the restoration of normal production.
A GROWING CONCERN FOR NAIROBI
The latest water crisis highlights the growing pressure on Nairobi's water infrastructure and the city's dependence on rainfall-sensitive reservoirs.
While temporary rationing may help preserve available resources, experts and residents will continue to look towards long-term solutions, including improved water storage, infrastructure investment and alternative supply sources.
For now, Nairobi residents must prepare for another challenging period as the struggle for reliable access to clean water continues.
Version 1.0. 54gist stories are edited before publication and updated as facts change. Spotted an error? Tell our editors.