Coca-Cola backs community-led water security efforts in the restoration of Kenya’s watersheds

Nairobi and surrounding communities face growing water stress, and efforts to restore critical watersheds in the region are gaining new support.

The Coca-Cola system has committed $1.65 million to rehabilitate key areas in Kenya’s Upper-Tana and Mid-Galana basins, focusing on protecting water supplies and strengthening community resilience.

The project combines environmental restoration with practical solutions for local communities.

In partnership with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and grassroots organisations, thousands of indigenous trees will be planted along riverbanks to improve water quality, while sustainable farming techniques aim to restore degraded farmland and rangeland.

Hundreds of farm ponds are being installed, and fruit orchards planted, providing both food security and potential sources of income for residents.

Water security remains a pressing challenge in Kenya, particularly as urban populations grow and climate change puts added strain on natural resources.

The project’s design reflects an understanding that safeguarding water requires both ecological interventions and community involvement.

“We are proud to be one of the implementing partners for this project, aimed at protecting and restoring our watersheds through nature-based solutions and improving water security for millions across the African continent,” said Ruth Masha, Kenya Country Director at TNC.

She emphasized the role of local communities and grassroots partners such as the Upper Tana-Nairobi Water Fund Trust, Green Generation Initiative, and Jumuiya Water Fund in driving change.

The initiative forms part of the Coca-Cola system’s Africa Water Stewardship program, which seeks to address water-related challenges in 20 African countries by 2030 through a $25 million investment.

Alfred Olajide, Vice President of Franchise Operations, East and Central Africa at Coca-Cola Central, East and West Africa Limited, highlighted the broader context.

He explained that “as we face increasing water insecurity worldwide, with demand surpassing supply in many regions including Africa, Coca-Cola is actively working to help accelerate efforts to address water stress, protect local water resources, and build community climate resilience.”

At the local level, Coca-Cola Beverages Kenya (CCBK) is leading implementation in areas where water scarcity is most acute.

General Manager James Bowmaker noted that the company sees a responsibility to support communities in managing and protecting their water resources.

“CCBK, as part of CCBA, has a responsibility to assist those who face water scarcity and to help protect local water resources where we operate, especially in places with the biggest challenges,” he said, adding that the initiative also seeks to improve access to water and sanitation services.

Partnerships are central to the project’s approach.

Olajide underscored the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration, noting that Coca-Cola and its bottlers are working with governments, civil society, and other businesses to implement strategic interventions that have a lasting impact.

By combining ecological restoration, sustainable land management, and community engagement, the project illustrates a model of water stewardship that links environmental health with social and economic benefits.

For Nairobi and surrounding areas, the initiative could play a vital role in strengthening water security while supporting livelihoods and long-term resilience.

About The Nature Conservancy (TNC):

The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends.

Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together.

We are tackling climate change, conserving lands, waters, and oceans at an unprecedented scale, providing food and water sustainably, and helping make cities more sustainable.

Working in 76 countries and territories—37 by direct conservation impact and 39 through partners—we use a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners.

About Global Water Challenge:

Global Water Challenge (GWC) is a sector leader in mobilizing clean water access, advancing water security and community empowerment in high need regions around the world.

Since 2005, GWC has positively impacted more than 3 million people across Africa, the Americas and Asia with improved WASH delivery while providing critical tools, data and best practices to reach millions more.

With our 100+ multi-sector partners, we engage for action – catalyzing financial resources and driving innovative programming for sustainable, local solutions.