Licenses & Permits

Access to clean and reliable water is critical for health, agriculture, and industrial development in Kenya. Borehole drilling has become a key solution for addressing water scarcity in various regions, especially in arid and semi-arid areas. However, this process involves more than just technical and financial considerations. Local governments and authorities play a crucial role in regulating, authorizing, and overseeing borehole drilling to ensure sustainable water management and compliance with legal frameworks.

“Permit acquisition is an essential step that ensures your borehole project is legally sound, allowing for smooth drilling and long-term success.”​

Legal and Regulatory Framework for Borehole Drilling in Kenya

The regulation of borehole drilling in Kenya is governed by the Water Act 2016 and administered through a series of institutions under the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation. Local governments and authorities work closely with these institutions to implement policies, grant permits, and monitor drilling activities.

Key players in the regulatory process include:

  • Water Resources Authority (WRA): Oversees water resource management and regulates water use.
  • County Governments: Provide administrative support and manage localized water resource planning.
  • National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA): Ensures environmental sustainability during drilling operations.

WRA License

Water Resources Authority license ensures that the use of groundwater is managed sustainably. It is issued to ensure that the drilling and water extraction comply with environmental and safety standards.

Water Resource Authority License

NEMA Environmental Assessment Report

National Environment Management Authorization is issued after an environmental impact assessment

Nema Licensing

Local Governments Authorization

Water Resources Authority license ensures that the use of groundwater is managed sustainably. It is issued to ensure that the drilling and water extraction comply with environmental and safety standards.

Local Authorities