Introduction
Access to clean and reliable water is necessary for households, businesses, and agricultural enterprises. With unpredictable rainfall and increasing water shortages in Kenya, drilling a borehole is a long-term investment that ensures sustainable water supply. This guide explores the borehole drilling process, costs, and key benefits to help you make an informed decision.
Why Borehole Drilling is Essential in Kenya
Kenya experiences frequent water shortages due to climate change, deforestation, and growing demand. Boreholes provide a reliable, cost-effective, and independent water source, reducing reliance on municipal water supplies.
Benefits of Drilling a Borehole
✅ Reliable Water Supply – Boreholes provide consistent access to water, regardless of droughts or seasonal shortages.
✅ Cost Savings – While the initial drilling cost may seem high, boreholes significantly reduce monthly water bills over time.
✅ Independence from Water Rationing – Many cities and towns in Kenya experience water rationing. Having a borehole ensures uninterrupted supply.
✅ Increased Property Value – Homes and businesses with private water sources have a higher market value.
✅ Sustainability – Borehole water is eco-friendly, especially when paired with solar-powered water pumps.
The Borehole Drilling Process in Kenya
1. Hydrogeological Survey & Site Assessment
Before drilling, a hydrogeological survey is conducted to determine the best drilling location and water potential. This step helps identify:
🔹 Depth of underground water 🔹 Expected water yield 🔹 Soil and rock composition
2. Borehole Drilling & Casing Installation
Using advanced drilling rigs, boreholes are drilled to the recommended depth. Once complete, high-quality UPVC or steel casings are installed to prevent collapse and contamination.
3. Borehole Development & Test Pumping
This process involves:
🔹 Cleaning the borehole to remove debris
🔹 Conducting test pumping to assess water yield and sustainability
🔹 Collecting water samples for quality analysis
4. Borehole Equipping & Water Pump Installation
The borehole is fitted with an electric or solar-powered pump, pipes, and control systems. The choice of pump depends on:
🔹 Borehole depth
🔹 Water demand
🔹 Power availability (solar or grid)
5. Water Storage & Distribution System
To ensure efficient water use, borehole water is stored in elevated steel tanks or underground reservoirs and connected to a reticulation system for distribution.
Borehole Drilling Costs in Kenya
The cost of drilling a borehole depends on various factors, including:
✅ Location & Depth – The deeper the borehole, the higher the cost. Boreholes in rocky areas require specialized drilling, increasing expenses.
✅ Hydrogeological Survey & Permits – Surveys and necessary approvals from WRMA (Water Resources Management Authority) add to the overall cost.
✅ Casing & Pump Type – High-quality casing and solar or submersible pumps influence pricing.
✅ Water Treatment & Filtration – Additional costs may arise for water purification if contaminants like iron, fluoride, or bacteria are present.
Estimated Cost Breakdown
🔹 Hydrogeological survey & permits: Ksh 50,000 – Ksh 100,000
🔹 Drilling & casing: Ksh 3,500 – Ksh 7,000 per meter
🔹 Pump installation (electric/solar): Ksh 100,000 – Ksh 500,000
🔹 Water storage system & plumbing: Ksh 100,000 – Ksh 300,000
Total estimated cost: Ksh 500,000 – Ksh 3,000,000, depending on borehole depth, location, and equipment used.
Why Choose Aquaview Engineering Kenya Limited?
At Aquaview Engineering Kenya Limited, we specialize in end-to-end borehole drilling solutions, ensuring high-quality and long-lasting water supply systems. Our expertise includes:
✅ Professional Hydrogeological Surveys
✅ Advanced Borehole Drilling & Casing Installation
✅ High-Efficiency Solar & Electric Water Pumps
✅ Borehole Rehabilitation & Maintenance
✅ Custom Water Treatment & Filtration Systems
Borehole Drilling Services in Kenya.
