Nairobi Sewer Crisis: AfDB Funds Wasted Amid Government Delays

Kenya is at risk of losing the Sh9.2 billion Nairobi sewerage project funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) due to delays in its implementation.

The project, which was meant to improve sanitation and sewerage systems in Nairobi, is now under threat because the government has only used 34% of the allocated funds.

If this utilization rate does not reach at least 60% by January 1, 2025, the AfDB could flag the project, putting its future in jeopardy.

This sewerage project was expected to play a critical role in addressing Nairobi’s long-standing sanitation challenges.

The city has struggled with poor waste management systems, leading to pollution and public health risks.

The funding from AfDB was seen as a timely intervention to expand sewer coverage and improve living conditions for millions of Nairobi residents.

However, the slow pace of implementation has raised concerns about whether the government is fully committed to completing the project within the stipulated timeline.

Experts blame bureaucratic delays, poor planning, and a lack of urgency from the agencies responsible for the project’s rollout.

Initial phases that should have been completed months ago remain unfinished, with contractors citing delayed payments and logistical challenges as major hurdles.

This lack of progress has raised questions about whether the funds are being managed effectively or if inefficiencies within the government are sabotaging such a vital initiative.

If the project is flagged by AfDB, Kenya risks losing not only the funding but also its credibility as a reliable partner for international development projects.

A red flag could result in the bank withholding further disbursements, effectively stalling the project indefinitely.

Such a scenario would be disastrous for Nairobi residents, as the sewerage infrastructure would remain inadequate, further worsening sanitation and environmental conditions in the city.

The government has until the end of the year to act decisively and accelerate the implementation of this project.

Achieving a 60% fund utilization rate within the remaining time will require streamlined processes, better coordination among stakeholders, and immediate action to address existing bottlenecks.

Failing to do so will not only waste the Sh9.2 billion already allocated but also deny Nairobi residents the benefits of improved sanitation and health.

Kenya cannot afford to lose this critical project.

The government must demonstrate accountability and urgency to ensure that the funds are used effectively and the project is completed on time.

Anything less would be a betrayal of the public trust and a missed opportunity to solve one of Nairobi’s most pressing problems.