Massive Water Project Approved to End Shortages in Thika

Eng. Moses Kinya, Managing Director of THIWASCO, outlines the scope and impact of the Thika–Githunguri Water and Sanitation Project during a stakeholder engagement forum.

In a major breakthrough for Thika residents, the national Cabinet has approved the commencement of the Sh15.4 billion Thika–Githunguri Water and Sanitation Project, a long awaited initiative that promises to transform water access across the region. Funded by Danida Sustainable Infrastructure Finance, the project is scheduled to begin in January 2026 and will run for 36 months.

Once complete, the project will more than double Thika’s current water supply, generating up to 70,000 cubic meters per day up from the existing 40,000 cubic meters. The development comes at a time when Thika is grappling with serious water shortages and rationing, brought on by a fast-rising population and increasing urbanization, as the town eyes elevation to city status.

The project includes the construction of a new dam, the expansion of the Chania River intake system, the establishment of a new water treatment plant, and a complete overhaul of the aging water distribution infrastructure. In addition, thousands of residents will benefit from new last mile water connections aimed at reaching underserved households.

Speaking during a recent stakeholder meeting, Thika Water and Sewerage Company (THIWASCO) officials expressed optimism about the project’s impact. The company currently supplies 40,000 cubic meters of water daily against a demand exceeding 60,000 leaving a daily shortfall of over 20,000 cubic meters.

To bridge this gap, THIWASCO is also implementing several internally funded projects expected to boost daily supply by an additional 15 million liters. These include network upgrades and strategic pipeline extensions.

  Stakeholders drawn from various sectors follow proceedings during the official briefing on the Sh15.4 billion Thika–Githunguri Water and Sanitation Project at Luke Hotel Cravers.

During the event, several stakeholders applauded THIWASCO’s commitment to addressing the crisis. However, Thika District Business Association Chairman Alfred Wanyoike voiced strong opposition to any attempts to merge the utility with other water companies in Kiambu County. He warned that such a move could jeopardize the progress made in Thika, especially if merged with less efficient entities.

"This is a well-managed company," Wanyoike said. "Any political interference or forced mergers with struggling firms would only derail service delivery."

As construction gears up for early 2026, the project is widely seen as a game changer not only in improving water access but also in boosting Thika’s credentials as a growing urban center ready for city status.

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