Kenya - Nairobi Rivers Basin Rehabilitation and Restoration Program: Sewerage Improvement Project Phase II - ESIA Summary

The Nairobi Sewerage Improvement Project phase 2 (NaRSIP II) is part of the larger Nairobi Rivers Basin Rehabilitation and Restoration Program which aims to enhance sustainable management of the Nairobi Rivers that support natural ecosystems regeneration, socio-economic activities and improved livelihoods. The rivers in the Nairobi Basin include; Nairobi River, Ngong river, Mathare river, Kiu river, Riara river and Gatharaini river. The growth of Nairobi city has surpassed the rate at which infrastructure is developed to meet the needs of the growing population. Urbanization, population growth, and industrialization are putting enormous pressure on the Nairobi Rivers – Mathare, Ngong, Athi and Kiu – the main source of water supply for the city. The rivers are heavily polluted from both domestic and industrial waste which is discharged directly into the rivers without being treated and adversely impacting its ecology. The existing sewer network infrastructure covers an approximate area of 208 km2 which is approximately 40% of total coverage in the city. The Government of Kenya (GoK), recognizing the magnitude of the problem has requested the African Development Bank (AfDB) for support to develop wastewater facilities in order to enhance the sustainable management of the Nairobi urban environment. The NaRSIP II is a second phase following the successful completion of phase I.