Murang’a Governor Kangata Terms Sakaja’s Inspection of Ndakaini Dam a Trespass

A public argument has arisen between the Governors of Murang’a and Nairobi over the Ndakaini Dam.

During an effort to inspect water sources and treatment plants in Nairobi, Governor Johnson Sakaja headed a group on a visit to the Ndakaini dam without any representation from Murang’a County. Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has denounced Sakaja’s visit, terming it as an intrusion. On Wednesday, Kang’ata publicly criticized Sakaja and uploaded photographs of him at the dam.

Nairobi’s water supply is dependent on the dam’s production, yet arguments regarding payment for the water have been continuous. Meanwhile, Murang’a county has actively threatened to stop the provision of water to Nairobi city unless payment is received. The water supply for Nairobi comes from three different rivers, Thika, Githika, and Kayuyu, which are geographically situated in Kiambu and Murang’a counties. Muranga Senator Joe Nyutu explains that Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company is selling the water while it is being given to them for free. He affirms that the status quo cannot continue.

Governor Johnson Sakaja’s leadership in the Nairobi County Government is finalising a pilot program to rid the country’s water sources of impurities. The efforts include chlorinating the water from boreholes throughout the capital and providing locals with immediate drinking water sources from which they do not have to worry about treating. According to official statements issued in June, Over 60 new chlorination devices will be installed in high-quality water iteration systems in areas like Mathare, Dagoretti South, Dagoretti North, and Kibra sub-counties. In-line chlorination is a simple means of administering chlorine into piped water systems.