Nairobi Water Lists UoN Campuses, Lang’ata, KNH, Westlands, Kileleshwa Among Areas to Face Shortage
Residents of Nairobi have been warned to brace for water shortages after a technical hitch disrupted supply from the Kabete-Kibera-Lang’ata pipeline. The Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC) released an urgent notice on Saturday, August 17, cautioning several estates and key institutions.
Major Institutions to Suffer
The company confirmed that the University of Nairobi, Kenyatta National Hospital, and The Nairobi Hospital will be affected. Additionally, areas like Westlands, Kibera, Lang’ata, Kilimani, Parklands, Lavington, Riverside, and Kileleshwa will experience interruptions.
Managing Director Nahashon Muguna explained the company’s position.
“Our technical staff is working around the clock to resolve the problem. We advise our customers to use their stored water sparingly,” Muguna said.

Deployment of Tankers
NWSC assured residents that emergency measures are already in place. The company has dispatched water tankers to the estates for free distribution.
Muguna emphasized this effort, stating:
“In the meantime, we have dispatched our water tankers to the affected estates for residents to draw water free of charge.”
The move aims to cushion households from the immediate impact of the shortage. However, the company did not give a clear timeline for the restoration of normal supply.
Rising Demand in the City
Nairobi, home to nearly five million people, consumes up to 900 million litres of water every day. However, the demand consistently outpaces supply, leaving millions vulnerable whenever technical issues arise.
President Ruto’s Long-Term Plan
“I know we have a water shortage problem in Nairobi. I want to give an assurance that in the next week or two, we are going to launch the Northern Collector Tunnel, which will bring 140 billion litres,” the President said.
The 11.8 km tunnel will capture 40 percent of floodwaters from Rivers Irati, Gikigie, and Maragua. These waters will then be directed to Ndakaini Dam, which supplies most of the Nairobi Metropolitan area.
Residents Urged to Stay Cautious
Despite the government’s long-term plan, the current crisis has left many households worried. Residents have been urged to conserve water until the situation stabilizes.

The disruption is yet another reminder of the fragile balance between Nairobi’s population growth and overstretched infrastructure.
ALSO READ: Boda Boda Riders Torch Land Rover on Thika Road After Tragic Crash
Nairobi Water Lists UoN Campuses, Lang’ata, KNH, Westlands, Kileleshwa Among Areas to Face Shortage

