Why Nairobi Must Lead in Conserving Nyandarua’s Water Sources: Protect the Source to Secure the Supply

When Nairobians turn on their taps each morning, few pause to think about where that water comes from. Much of it originates in Nyandarua County, nestled in the Aberdare ranges — a region whose rivers, dams, and catchment areas are the lifeblood of Kenya’s capital.

Yet these critical water sources are facing immense threats: deforestation, land degradation, pollution, and poor management. If left unchecked, Nairobi’s water security — and by extension its economy — is at serious risk.

Why Nyandarua Matters to Nairobi

Nyandarua hosts key catchment areas feeding rivers such as Malewa, Karuru, and Chania, which eventually supply major reservoirs like Ndakaini, Sasumua, and Ruiru dams. These systems provide a significant share of Nairobi’s drinking water.

Historically, Nyandarua was also a recreational gem. Lakes and rivers here were once prime spots for fishing, sailing, and rowing, offering scenic escapes for both locals and tourists. Sadly, over the years, siltation, pollution, and neglect have robbed Kenyans of this heritage

The Conservation Challenge

Nyandarua’s highlands have seen increased farming, illegal logging, and settlement encroaching on sensitive catchment zones. Without urgent conservation:

-Water volumes into Nairobi’s reservoirs will continue declining.

-Siltation will shorten the lifespan of dams and increase treatment costs.

-The potential for eco-tourism and recreation will remain untapped.

Nairobi’s Role in Protecting the Source

Because Nairobi directly benefits from Nyandarua’s water, it must invest in protecting it. This could include:

-Funding catchment rehabilitation programs and tree-planting efforts.

-Partnering with Nyandarua County on community-based conservation.

-Supporting eco-tourism projects to revive recreational fishing, sailing, and rowing — restoring a lost national gem.

-Ensuring policy alignment between Nairobi Water Company, WRMA, and county governments to secure long-term supply.

Final Word

Water security begins at the source. Nairobi cannot afford to ignore the health of Nyandarua’s ecosystems. By leading conservation efforts, the capital will not only secure its future supply but also help restore one of Kenya’s most beautiful — and forgotten — natural gems.

Protect the source to secure the supply.