Nairobi, Kisumu Residents Face Water Shortages as Utilities Announce Supply Cuts

Residents in parts of Nairobi and Kisumu have been warned of reduced water supply and possible interruptions following separate announcements by Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company (NCWSC) and Kisumu Water and Sanitation Company (KIWASCO).

The two water utilities have announced measures expected to affect thousands of households, with Nairobi Water attributing its supply reduction to declining water levels at Thika/Ndakaini Dam, while KIWASCO is preparing to conduct a valve throttling trial along the Kajulu Main Line.

In Nairobi, the water utility announced an immediate 35 per cent reduction in water production at Ngethu and Kigoro Water Treatment Plants following a significant decline in water levels at Thika/Ndakaini Dam, the city's principal source of water.

In a public notice, Nairobi Water said the declining dam levels had been caused by below-average rainfall within its catchment area, resulting in reduced inflows and necessitating temporary restrictions on water abstraction.

The company warned that the reduction in production would lead to extended water rationing periods for consumers as it seeks to preserve the available reserves and maintain supply over the coming months.

The disruption is expected to affect customers served by Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company, Githunguri Water and Sanitation Company, Kiambu Water and Sanitation Company, Karuri Water and Sanitation Company, Mavoko Water and Sewerage Company, Ololaiser Water and Sewerage Company, and Olkejuado Water and Sewerage Company.

Nairobi Water has urged consumers to use the available water prudently as it continues monitoring water levels and weather conditions.

The utility said it would periodically review production volumes depending on the prevailing situation.

Customers seeking assistance or clarification have been advised to contact the company through its toll-free number, 0800 724 366.

Meanwhile, in Kisumu, KIWASCO has announced a week-long valve throttling trial along the Kajulu Main Line as part of preparations for the installation of a bulk water meter.

In a public notice dated November 7, 2026, the company said the exercise would commence on Tuesday, November 10, at 9:00 a.m. and run until Tuesday, November 17, at 6:00 p.m.

KIWASCO warned that customers in several areas could experience low water pressure or temporary interruptions during the exercise.

Areas likely to be affected include the entire Kajulu area, Guba, Kamrongo, Mamboleo, Wathorego, Alango, Chiga, Kibos, Ragumo, Moolamazi, Migosi, Lolwe and Kenya-Re.
Other affected areas include Tido, Mbeme, RIAT-Airport, Kanyamedha, Kisian, Kirembe, Otonglo, Nawa, Ogango, RIAT College, KeRRA, Uzima University and Obunga.

The utility also listed Nyawita, Kona Mbaya, Ridge Parks, Lago Resort, Wigot, Loose Uzima, Kondele, parts of Manyatta, Russia Hospital, Polyview and neighbouring estates among the areas that could experience disruptions.

KIWASCO has urged residents in the affected neighbourhoods to store sufficient water before the exercise begins to minimise inconveniences.

Customers experiencing low pressure or interruptions have been advised to report the issues through the company's social media platforms or its call centre on 057 500 7000 for assistance.

The two announcements come as water utilities seek to manage supply challenges and maintain service delivery amid infrastructure-related works and declining water reserves.

Residents in the affected areas have been encouraged to conserve available water, plan their usage and make arrangements to cope with the anticipated disruptions.