A massive sewer line project in Machakos County is expected to be fully installed and operational by the end of August 2026.
In this regard, a huge volume of sewer waste, that once flowed in open drains of Machakos and its environs, through Muvuti, Kiima Kimwe,Katheka Kai,Mutituni and Mumbuni will instead run through the 65 kilometers of underground pipes to a modern sewer treatment plant.
The Machakos Sewerage Project in Muvuti, which is under the Kenya Towns Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation Program, now 90% complete, is on track to connect an estimated 150,000 residents in Machakos town and its surrounding areas to a centralized sewer system for the first time.
During a site visit the Machakos County Implementation Coordination Management Committee (CICMC) led by Machakos County Commissioner, Jackson Ole Chuta, the team got a first-hand look at the progress of the works.
They were hosted by Eng. David Otieno, Manager for Construction and Residual Operations at Tanathi Water Works Development Agency.
According to Engineer Otieno, construction began in June 2020 with a budget of Sh840 million and the revised contract price now stands at Sh1 billion.
So far the contractor has laid 65km of the sewer line and modern waste water treatment plan across Muvuti, Kimutwa, Kiima Kimwe, Mumbuni, Katheka Kai, Mua, and Mutituni.
The plant itself has the capacity to treat 6,250 cubic meters of wastewater daily and about 3,000 household connections are ongoing in Machakos town and its environs.
“The works commenced in June 2020 and we are at 90% to be completed by the end of August 2026,” Eng. Otieno told the CICMC team. “We have installed 65km of sewer and a modern wastewater treatment plant. What remains is 3.2km.”
Site Agent Eng. Thomas Biwott said the project is in its final phase.
“We are at the tail end now. The remaining works are electrical connections and landscaping,” he said.
For years, residents relied on septic tanks and pit latrines, many of which overflow during heavy rains. Public health officials say the new system will cut waterborne diseases and groundwater contamination across the county.
“Once complete, this project will play a crucial role in improving public health and enhancing proper sanitation across Machakos County and its environs,” Eng. Otieno said.
He confirmed that the plant uses modern treatment technology designed to meet discharge standards before releasing water back into the environment and the community.
The road to 90% wasn’t smooth. Area Chief James Kimeu told the committee that at inception, residents resisted the project.
“People were against it. They cited interruptions on their farms and concerns about their land,” Chief Kimeu said.
He ascertained that the standoff was resolved through public participation forums where officials explained the long-term benefits.
“After we explained the impact of the project to the community, they agreed to come on board,” added Chief Kimeu.
That buy-in has been key. With trenches now backfilled and roads being reinstated, the focus has shifted to connections and community education.
With just 3.2km of sewer line and final electrical works remaining, Tanathi Water Works says the August 31, 2026 deadline is achievable. Once commissioned, the system will be handed over for operations and maintenance.
For households in Muvuti and beyond, that means fewer blockages, less flooding of waste, and a county capital that finally has infrastructure to match its growth.
As Eng. Otieno put it: “This is not just a sewer. It’s dignity, health, and a cleaner Machakos.”
Machakos County Commissioner Jackson Ole Chuta who led the committee on the site commended the ongoing sewerage water project in Machakos describing it as a critical step toward improving public health and urban sanitation in the county.
He said the project will address long-standing challenges of waste disposal that have affected residents living in and around Machakos town center.
“This project is timely and necessary. Proper sewerage infrastructure is the backbone of a healthy and growing town. Once complete, it will significantly reduce cases of waterborne diseases and improve the general hygiene of our communities,” the County Commissioner said.
Ole Chuta noted that improved sanitation will also support the county’s efforts to attract investors and create a cleaner environment for businesses and learning institutions.
“We cannot talk about development without talking about sanitation. A town with proper waste management is a town that is ready for growth. I urge the contractor to maintain quality and adhere to the timelines so that residents can benefit without delay,” he added.
By Anne Kangero
