Mombasa pushes to complete key sanitation project
Mombasa County has reported encouraging progress in upgrading its sanitation infrastructure following a joint inspection of the Water and Sanitation Development Project by county officials, the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation and representatives of the World Bank.
The inspection was led by County Executive Committee Member for Environment and Water Hon. Kibibi Abdallah, accompanied by County Chief Officer for Water Eng. Albert Keno and Mombasa Water Supply and Sanitation Company (MOWASSCO) Managing Director Habiba Ali.
The delegation assessed ongoing works under the project, with particular attention given to the Kipevu Wastewater Treatment System, where notable progress towards completion was observed.
The inspection forms part of broader efforts to strengthen sanitation infrastructure, improve wastewater management and enhance environmental protection in the coastal city.
The Kipevu facility is an important component of Mombasa’s sewerage network. Located near Kilindini Harbour, the treatment plant receives wastewater through trunk sewers serving parts of the mainland, including Changamwe, Chaani, Miritini and surrounding areas. Its operations are essential to the management of wastewater generated by households and other establishments connected to the sewerage system.
Rehabilitation of the treatment plant and four associated pumping stations is among the interventions being undertaken through the Water and Sanitation Development Project. The works are intended to improve the operational efficiency of the facility and strengthen the infrastructure used to convey wastewater for treatment.
The project is particularly significant for Mombasa, where effective wastewater management is important for protecting public health, coastal ecosystems and the surrounding marine environment. Inadequate treatment and the discharge of untreated sewage can contribute to water pollution and expose communities to sanitation-related health risks.
The wider programme also seeks to improve access to water supply and sanitation services in selected coastal and north-eastern regions of Kenya. It involves several county governments, water service providers and water sector institutions, with the national Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation overseeing implementation.
In Mombasa, the programme has also supported improvements in community water access. A World Bank report published in June 2026 highlighted a water kiosk in Bwaga Moyo village, Mwakirunge Ward, serving close to 1,000 households. The facility is among 30 water points established across the county under the programme, illustrating its broader role in improving essential water services.
The latest inspection underscores the importance of coordination between the county government, national government, MOWASSCO and development partners in delivering infrastructure projects.
As work progresses at Kipevu, timely completion and reliable operation of the upgraded system will be critical to improving wastewater treatment capacity and strengthening sanitation services for Mombasa residents.
The initiative reinforces the principle that sanitation is central to public health, environmental sustainability and the dignity of communities.
