KENYA – Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) has committed KES 54 million (US$413,000) to a water conservation initiative in collaboration with the Upper Tana-Nairobi Water Fund Trust (UTNWF Trust).
The initiative aims to enhance water conservation, mitigate water-related risks, and improve access to clean water in the Tana River basin. This latest investment aligns with KBL’s broader sustainability strategy, which includes previous financial contributions toward safeguarding water resources.
Strengthening watershed resilience
The Upper Tana watershed is a critical water source for Kenya, supplying 95% of Nairobi’s water and generating 65% of the country’s hydropower.
Established in 2015, the UTNWF Trust is Africa’s first water fund, focusing on long-term conservation efforts to maintain the region’s water security.
With a growing population and increasing demand for water, conservation initiatives such as this play a crucial role in ensuring reliable water access for households, businesses, and industries.
Speaking on the partnership, Eric Kiniti, Group Corporate Relations Director at East African Breweries Limited (EABL), highlighted the company’s commitment to resource conservation.
“Our collaboration with the Upper Tana-Nairobi Water Fund Trust is part of our broader efforts to ensure access to clean and safe water while supporting agricultural livelihoods and environmental sustainability.”
Expanding conservation efforts
KBL’s latest funding will facilitate several conservation measures, including tree planting to combat climate change, construction of terraces to prevent soil erosion, and protection of riparian land.
Additionally, the initiative will support the construction of water pans and the installation of irrigation kits in key areas of the Upper Tana watershed, including the Mt. Kenya and Aberdare ranges.
This commitment builds upon KBL’s previous investments in water conservation. In 2024 alone, the company allocated KES 190 million (US$1.45 million) to similar projects within the Upper Tana watershed.
Additionally, KBL has invested over KES 850 million (US$6.49 million) in water recovery plants at its Nairobi and Kisumu facilities, collectively reclaiming 1,968 cubic meters of water daily.
Private sector role in water management
Kenya’s water challenges require collaboration between public and private stakeholders.
Nahashon Muguna, Managing Director and CEO of Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company, acknowledged the importance of such partnerships.
“As Nairobi’s population grows, sustainable water conservation becomes increasingly critical. KBL’s commitment to supporting conservation initiatives strengthens the resilience of our water systems, benefiting both communities and industries.”
Beyond financial contributions, EABL actively engages in capacity-building programs, infrastructure development, and policy advocacy aimed at promoting sustainable water management.
These efforts are in line with global sustainability practices and complement Kenya’s broader environmental conservation goals.
Timely Initiative amid growing water demand
The partnership coincided with World Water Day, observed annually on March 22, which fosters discussions and collaborations to address global water scarcity.
Kenya’s approach to public-private partnerships in water conservation serves as an example of how coordinated efforts can drive long-term water security.
Michael Thuita, Chairman of the UTNWF Trust, emphasized the importance of collective action.
“Partnerships like this are essential in protecting vital water sources and ensuring ecosystem resilience. We appreciate KBL’s continued involvement in conservation efforts, which contribute to sustainable resource management for present and future generations.”
