AWWDA Engages Contractors Ahead of Major Thika, Githunguri Water Project

The Athi Water Works Development Agency (AWWDA) has taken a key step toward improving water and sanitation services in Kiambu County by convening a pre-bid meeting and site visits for the proposed Thika and Githunguri Water and Sanitation Improvement Project.

The engagement brought together prospective contractors and key stakeholders to familiarise them with the project scope, technical requirements and site conditions ahead of the bidding process.

The project, funded by the Government of Kenya and DANIDA Sustainable Infrastructure Finance (DSIF), is expected to significantly enhance access to reliable water supply and modern sanitation services in Thika, Githunguri and surrounding areas.

According to AWWDA, the project will involve the construction of the Thika 3A Dam, new water treatment plants, and an extensive network of transmission and distribution pipelines. It will also include the development of sewerage systems, wastewater treatment facilities, storage tanks and district metered areas (DMAs).

The initiative is also set to expand services to underserved areas, including informal settlements such as Kiandutu, where access to clean water and proper sanitation has remained a challenge.

During the pre-bid session, participants were taken through key aspects of the project, including implementation plans, environmental and social safeguards and operational considerations.

“The engagement is aimed at ensuring bidders have a clear understanding of the project requirements and site conditions to enable them to submit responsive proposals,” officials said.

In addition to new infrastructure, the project will support the rehabilitation of existing water systems, development of groundwater sources and improvements in operational efficiency.

AWWDA noted that the initiative will also strengthen institutional and technical capacity to ensure sustainable service delivery in the long term.

The pre-bid meetings and site visits are expected to lay the groundwork for a competitive bidding process and successful implementation of what is seen as a transformative project for water and sanitation in the region.