Access to clean water is not just a necessity—it’s a fundamental right. Yet, millions of Kenyans, especially those in rural and peri-urban areas, continue to face water scarcity due to unreliable municipal supply, erratic rainfall, and climate change. As a result, many homeowners, farmers, institutions, and businesses are turning to boreholes as a sustainable and independent water source. But one of the most common and important questions before starting such a project is: How much does it cost to drill a borehole in Kenya in 2025?
We provide a comprehensive look at the current costs of borehole drilling in Kenya, breaking down the expenses across every stage—from site surveys to installation of pumps and storage systems. Whether you’re planning to drill in Nairobi, Kajiado, Kitui, Meru, or Turkana, this guide will help you understand the financial implications and what you should expect.
What Influences Borehole Drilling Costs in Kenya?
The cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya can vary significantly depending on several key factors:
1. Location and Geology
Different parts of Kenya have varying geological formations. Rocky terrains like those in parts of Rift Valley or Eastern Kenya may require more drilling effort than alluvial soils found in areas like parts of Western Kenya.
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Soft soil drilling is cheaper and faster.
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Hard rock formations increase fuel and labor costs, requiring more durable drill bits and casings.
2. Depth of the Borehole
Depth is one of the largest cost determinants. Shallow boreholes (70–100 meters) are cheaper, but not always feasible, especially in arid regions where water tables are deep. In places like Machakos or Baringo, boreholes may need to be 150–250 meters deep to reach reliable aquifers.
3. Type of Drilling Technology Used
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Percussion drilling is suitable for soft soils and is generally less costly.
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Rotary drilling is preferred for deeper and more complex boreholes, but it’s more expensive due to the equipment and technical expertise required.
4. Pump Type and Installation
The choice between an electric pump, a solar-powered pump, or a manual hand pump also greatly impacts overall costs. While solar pumps are more expensive upfront, they offer long-term savings in off-grid areas.
5. Service Provider
Prices can vary significantly between borehole drilling companies. More experienced firms with modern rigs may charge more but also offer higher quality assurance.
Breakdown of Borehole Drilling Costs in Kenya (2025)
Let’s take a closer look at each phase of the borehole project and what it costs in Kenyan Shillings (KES):
1. Hydrogeological Survey
A survey by a licensed hydrogeologist is mandatory to determine water availability, depth, and ideal drilling location.
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Cost: KES 50,000 – KES 80,000
This fee includes field data collection, report writing, and submission to the Water Resources Authority (WRA) for permit processing.
2. Government Permits and Licenses
Before drilling begins, you must obtain permits from WRA and NEMA:
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WRA Permit Application: KES 20,000 – KES 40,000
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NEMA Report or EIA: KES 10,000 – KES 30,000
Some counties may require additional approvals, especially in urban or conservation zones.
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Total Permits Cost: KES 30,000 – KES 70,000
3. Drilling Mobilization and Setup
This covers the cost of transporting the drilling rig and support equipment to your site:
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Cost: KES 20,000 – KES 50,000
This may be higher for remote or hard-to-reach areas like parts of North Eastern Kenya.
4. Drilling Cost Per Meter
This is where most of your budget will go. In 2025, drilling costs depend on soil type and depth:
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Soft Soils: KES 6,000 – 7,000 per meter
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Medium Soils/Rock: KES 7,000 – 8,500 per meter
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Hard Rock: KES 9,000 – 10,000+ per meter
Example Estimates:
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100-meter borehole: KES 700,000 – 900,000
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150-meter borehole: KES 1,000,000 – 1,400,000
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200-meter borehole: KES 1,400,000 – 2,000,000
Prices usually include drilling, casing, and gravel packing, but always verify this with your contractor.
5. Borehole Casing
To protect the borehole walls and prevent contamination or collapse, casing pipes are inserted and sealed with gravel and sometimes a sanitary seal.
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PVC Casing (Standard): KES 50,000 – 150,000
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Steel Casing (Heavy-Duty): KES 100,000 – 250,000
The deeper and rockier the borehole, the more casing will be needed.
6. Test Pumping and Water Quality Analysis
After drilling, a temporary pump is installed to measure flow rates and check for aquifer recharge. Simultaneously, water samples are analyzed in certified labs for chemical and biological contaminants.
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Cost: KES 15,000 – KES 30,000
7. Pump Installation
Your pump choice depends on depth, water yield, and electricity availability.
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Manual Hand Pump: KES 50,000 – 80,000 (shallow wells only)
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Electric Submersible Pump: KES 100,000 – 250,000
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Solar-Powered Pump System: KES 250,000 – 500,000+
Solar pumps are ideal in rural and off-grid locations, especially in counties like Turkana, Wajir, or Garissa.
8. Water Storage and Distribution System
To store and distribute water, you’ll need tanks, a tower, and piping. Common options include:
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Plastic Tanks (2,000–10,000 liters): KES 20,000 – 120,000
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Steel Tower & Plumbing: KES 30,000 – 180,000
Hidden or Miscellaneous Costs to Consider
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Security and Fencing: Especially for institutions or in remote locations.
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Generator or Solar Inverter: If using electric pumps in off-grid areas.
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Annual WRA Abstraction Fee: Varies depending on daily water extraction volume.
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Maintenance & Servicing: Pumps and pipes require periodic servicing every 1–2 years.
Cost-Saving Tips for Borehole Projects
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Combine with Neighbors or Community Groups
Joint drilling projects can help split the costs of permits and mobilization. -
Opt for Solar Pumps in Sunny Areas
While expensive upfront, solar saves thousands in electricity bills. -
Plan During Dry Seasons
Access roads are more stable, and you avoid delays caused by flooding. -
Negotiate Bulk Pricing
If you need multiple boreholes for agriculture or institutions, negotiate with contractors for discounts.
Final Thoughts
Drilling a borehole in Kenya in 2025 is a smart investment in long-term water security, but it requires careful financial planning. With total costs ranging from KES 1.1 million to over 3 million, the decision should be made with a clear understanding of your location, water needs, and technical requirements. Always engage licensed professionals and ensure you comply with regulatory guidelines to avoid penalties or environmental harm.
Whether you’re a farmer in Laikipia, a school administrator in Kakamega, or a homeowner in Kitengela, borehole drilling can transform your water access, productivity, and resilience.
