Protected: Development of bulk water supply PPP in Naivasha
Kenya faces significant challenges in water supply, with an infrastructure funding gap of approximately USD 1 billion per year through 2030. Rebel is leading a private initiative that includes a water treatment plant in Naivasha to enhance both domestic and industrial water supply, serving as a model for bulk water supply PPP projects nationwide.
The challenge
Naivasha, a rapidly growing industrial and urban hub in Kenya, lacks sufficient bulk water supply. As of 2024, many residents still rely on public kiosks, and existing infrastructure struggles to meet rising demand, with the population projected to reach 575,000 by 2030.
The government has prioritized the Naivasha Special Economic Zone (SEZ) under its economic transformation agenda, but financing gaps and structuring risks have stalled previous PPP efforts. The challenge was to design a privately led, bankable bulk water PPP project that delivers secure domestic and industrial supply, achieves financial close, and mobilizes both development and commercial capital.
The approach
Rebel played a central role in developing the Naivasha Bulk Water Supply Project, serving as the early-stage developer and financial advisor. Together with Haskoning, Rebel led the design and structuring of a privately initiated public-private partnership (PIP), which was formally approved by Kenya’s PPP Directorate in June 2025. The project aims to provide a reliable water supply to the rapidly growing community of Naivasha and to industries operating in the Special Economic Zone (SEZ), a critical pillar of Kenya’s industrial development agenda.
For the full feasibility stage and project implementation, Rebel has led the onboarding of additional investors: AWID, WaterConnect, and PIDG.
Impact
Developing and delivering a bulk water project that will lead to improved water supply to Naivasha households and SEZ.
