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Cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya

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The Cost of Drilling a Borehole in Kenya

Drilling a borehole in Kenya is a significant investment that can provide a reliable source of water for your home, farm, or business. The cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya can vary depending on several factors, including the depth of the borehole, the location, and the type of drilling equipment used. In this article, we will explore the factors that can affect the cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya and provide you with an estimate of the costs involved.

Cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya

Factors that Affect the Cost of Drilling a Borehole

Location

The location of the borehole is one of the most important factors that can affect the cost of drilling. If the borehole is located in a remote area, the cost of transportation and logistics can increase the overall cost of drilling. Additionally, the geology of the area can also affect the cost of drilling. If the area has hard rock formations, it may require more time and specialized equipment to drill through the rock, which can increase the cost.

Cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya

Depth of the Borehole

The depth of the borehole is another important factor that can affect the cost of drilling. The deeper the borehole, the more time and equipment will be required to drill it. Additionally, deeper boreholes may require more casing and grouting materials to ensure the stability of the borehole, which can also increase the cost.

Cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya

The borehole drilling method

There are 2 borehole drilling methods:

  1. Air drilling / pneumatic percussion drilling is an under-balanced drilling technique (UBD). Here, compressed air or nitrogen is used to cool the drilling bit and extract the cuttings of a well-bore instead of fluids. this is carried on stable ground with a proper rock formation
  2. Mud rotary drilling. The fluid is pumped down the hollow drill pipe (kelly) and forced out of jets in the drill bits. It is an open-hole reciculatory drilling method. Chemicals used here are; Bentonite clay (Gel), Barium sulphate (Barite), Calcium carbonate (chalk), and Hematite

Borehole Drilling Price In Kenya

By Drilling Method

Drilling Method
What it entails
Price in KES Per Meter
1. Air drillingDrilling on stable ground that has a proper rock formation beneathKES 6,500
2. Mud drillingDrilling on loose ground that has no or minimal rock beneath

KES 14,050

Estimate of Costs

The cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya can range from KES 6,000 to KES 12,000 per meter, depending on the factors mentioned above. The total cost of drilling a borehole can vary from KES 300,000 to KES 1,200,000, depending on the depth of the borehole and the location.

Cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya

If you are considering drilling a borehole in Kenya, it is important to conduct a thorough site survey to determine the best location for the borehole. You can contact KNH Contractors for more information on borehole drilling services and to get a quote for your project.

Borehole Drilling Cost in Kenya

Details

 ProcessCost Per Meter- Air drilling methodCost Per Meter- Mud drilling method
1MobilisationKES 420KES 420
2DrillingKES 3,220KES 11,270
3CasingKES 2,269KES 2,569
4GravelingKES 280KES 280
5Well developmentKES 70KES 70
6Test pumpingKES 420KES 420
7Water chemical analysisKES 21KES 21
 TotalKES 6,700KES 15,050
  • Mobilisation is the movement of human resource and equipment to the borehole drilling site
  • Drilling is the actual sinking of the 8″ diameter well in the ground
  • Casing is the installation of PVC or metallic 6″ diameter tubes to support the well, keeping it from collapse. Those along the water aquifer are slotted to allow in water into the well. The slots are 1mm to 2mm in size
  • Graveling is the application of gravel in the 2″ gap between the well and the casings. Graveling holds the casings in place and also sieves the water
  • Well development is the cleaning of the well to remove debris
  • Test pumping is the process of pumping out water for 24 hours from the borehole with a large submersible water pump, powered an equally powerful generator. This establishes the water recharge rate (yield of the borehole) given in cubic litres per hour, and the static water level. The test pumping results determine the type of electric or solar submersible water pump install in the well
  • Water chemical analysis is the last stage. A sample of water is analysed in the laboratory to determine it’s chemical composition. With these results, a grower assesses the suitability of the water for irrigation for specific crops according to their salt/ salinity tolerance

Cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya

Additional Costs

In addition to the cost of drilling, there are also other costs that you should consider when planning to drill a borehole. These include:

  1. Water Testing: It is important to test the water quality before using it for drinking or irrigation purposes. The cost of water testing can vary depending on the laboratory and the parameters tested.

  2. Pump Installation: After the borehole is drilled, you will need to install a pump to extract the water. The cost of the pump and its installation can vary depending on the type and capacity of the pump.

  3. Electricity: If the borehole is located in a remote area, you may need to install a generator or solar panels to provide power for the pump. The cost of electricity can vary depending on the type of power source used.

  4. Maintenance: Boreholes require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity and efficiency. The cost of maintenance can vary depending on the type of borehole and the frequency of maintenance required.

 

Cost of Drilling A Borehole in Kenya

By Geographical Location

CountyCost (Min)Cost (Max)
NairobiKES 6,500KES 9,500
KajiadoKES 6,500KES 9,500
MachakosKES 6,600KES 9,500
KituiKES 6,800KES 9,500
MakueniKES 6,700KES 9,500
KiambuKES 6,500KES 9,500
NakuruKES 6,800KES 9,500
KisumuKES 7,500KES 9,500
TurkanaKES 8,000KES 9,500
BungomaKES 6,900KES 9,500
BusiaKES 7,700KES 9,500
NarokKES 6,800KES 9,500
MombasaKES 7,500KES 9,500
KilifiKES 7,500KES 9,500
KwaleKES 7,600KES 9,500
BaringoKES 6,900KES 9,500
SiayaKES 7,600KES 9,500
HomabayKES 7,600KES 9,500
Uasin GishuKES 6,900KES 9,500
 

Cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya

Drilling a borehole in Kenya is a significant investment that can provide a reliable source of water for your home, farm, or business. The cost of drilling a borehole can vary depending on several factors, including the location, depth of the borehole, and the type of drilling equipment used. It is important to conduct a thorough site survey and get a quote from a reputable drilling company like KNH Contractors to get an accurate estimate of the costs involved.

For more information on our services and projects, you can visit our services page or check out our portfolio for some of our completed projects. You can also read our blog for more articles and tips on borehole drilling and other construction-related topics.

Cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya

If you have any questions or need assistance with your borehole drilling project, feel free to contact us and we will be happy to assist you.

Advantages of Drilling a Borehole in Kenya

Reliable Water Supply

One of the main advantages of drilling a borehole in Kenya is that it can provide a reliable source of water for your home, farm, or business. Unlike municipal water supplies, which can be subject to disruptions and rationing, a borehole provides a constant supply of water that you can rely on.

Cost-Effective in the Long Run

While the initial cost of drilling a borehole can be high, it can be a cost-effective solution in the long run. Once the borehole is drilled, the ongoing maintenance and operational costs are relatively low compared to other water supply options. Additionally, you can save on water bills and avoid the cost of purchasing water from vendors.

Environmental Benefits

Drilling a borehole can also have environmental benefits. By tapping into underground water sources, you can reduce the pressure on surface water sources, such as rivers and lakes, which are often over-exploited. Additionally, borehole water is often cleaner and requires less treatment compared to surface water, reducing the need for chemicals and energy-intensive treatment processes.

Things to Consider Before Drilling a Borehole

Water Rights and Regulations

Before drilling a borehole in Kenya, it is important to be aware of the water rights and regulations in your area. You may need to obtain a permit from the relevant authorities, such as the Water Resources Management Authority (WRMA), to drill a borehole. Additionally, you may need to comply with certain environmental and safety standards to ensure that the borehole is drilled safely and responsibly.

Cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya

Site Survey and Hydrogeological Assessment

It is also important to conduct a thorough site survey and hydrogeological assessment before drilling a borehole. This will help you determine the best location for the borehole, the depth of the borehole, and the potential yield of the borehole. A qualified hydrogeologist can conduct the assessment and provide you with recommendations based on the geological conditions of your area.

Choose a Reputable Drilling Company

Finally, it is important to choose a reputable drilling company to ensure that the borehole is drilled safely and efficiently. Look for a company that has experience in drilling boreholes in your area and has a track record of successful projects. You can ask for references and check online reviews to ensure that the company is reliable and trustworthy.

Cost of drilling a borehole in Kenya

Conclusion

Drilling a borehole in Kenya can provide a reliable and cost-effective source of water for your home, farm, or business. However, it is important to consider the factors that can affect the cost of drilling and to be aware of the water rights and regulations in your area. Additionally, it is important to choose a reputable drilling company to ensure that the borehole is drilled safely and efficiently. If you have any questions or need assistance with your borehole drilling project, feel free to contact us at KNH Contractors and we will be happy to assist you.

Sample Flushing Report for a Borehole
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Borehole Drilling Company in Kenya

by with 2 Comments Boreholes

When looking for the best borehole drilling company in Kenya, K&H Limited is your first stop. We are a leading borehole drilling company in Kenya and the entire East Africa. K&H Limited provides unmatched and world class borehole drilling services in Kenya and beyond. Since 2016, K&H Limited has installed hundreds of boreholes and installed a variety of pumps, making it a powerhouse and reputable borehole drilling service provider of choice. Clients who choose us always refer us to potential clients.

Clients who choose us always refer us to potential clients.

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Borehole drilling company in Kenya: Rig at work

Borehole Drilling Services in Kenya by K&H Limited

  • Hydrogeological survey services
  • Borehole drilling
  • Pump Installation (Both Electricand solar submersible pumps)
  • Tank Tower Construction
  • Piping
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Borehole drilling company in Kenya: Rig at work

Procedure for drilling a borehole in Kenya

  1. Hydrogeological survey. To determine location and depth of the borehole
  2. Obtain water resource authority permit
  3. Obtain NEMA permit
  4. Material mobilization and drilling. Casing is also done at this stage.
  5. Test pumping. To know the borehole yield.

Chemical analysys. To determine the suitability of the borehole water

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Borehole drilling company in Kenya: Successfully drilled borehole
Uses of Borehole Water
  1. Domestic and animal use
  2. Both drip irrigationand sprinkler irrigations
  3. Industrial use.

Borehole Drilling Prices in Kenya

County

Minimum Cost

Maximum Cost

Nairobi

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

Kajiado

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

Machakos

KES 6,600

KES 9,500

Kitui

KES 6,800

KES 9,500

Makueni

KES 6,700

KES 9,500

Kiambu

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

Nakuru

KES 6,800

KES 9,500

Kisumu

KES 7,500

KES 9,500

Turkana

KES 8,000

KES 9,500

Bungoma

KES 6,900

KES 9,500

Busia

KES 7,700

KES 9,500

Narok

KES 6,800

KES 9,500

Mombasa

KES 7,500

KES 9,500

Kilifi

KES 7,500

KES 9,500

Kwale

KES 7,600

KES 9,500

Baringo

KES 6,900

KES 9,500

Siaya

KES 7,600

KES 9,500

Homabay

KES 7,600

KES 9,500

Borehole Drilling Prices in Kenya

K&H offers borehole drilling services in Nairobi, Eldoret, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Kitale, Turkana, Bomet, Bungoma, Busia, and other locations countrywide.

cost of drilling a borehole in kenya
Borehole drilling company in Kenya: Rig at Work
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Borehole Drilling in Kenya

by with 2 Comments Boreholes

Get the best Borehole Drilling Services in Kenya

Borehole Drilling in Kenya 11
borehole

Borehole Drilling in Kenya is carried out to satisfy the ever growing demand for water, mainly for domestic use, irrigation, industrial and livestock needs. Borehole drilling in Kenya is mainly done efficiently using latest state of the art borehole drilling machines (known commercially as borehole drilling rigs). Manual borehole drilling is is also done using manual digging tools. Currently, K&H Contractors Limited is one of the largest borehole drilling companies in Kenya with years of experience in drilling and equipping.

Over the years, K&H has built a reputation as one of the best borehole drilling companies in Kenya and the entire East Africa. Being one of the leading well drilling companies in Kenya, we always strive to give our clients the best and prompt services. Our borehole drilling services in Kenya are top notch, always meeting customer needs.

Borehole Drilling in Kenya 12

Money

Cost of Drilling Borehole in Kenya (Per meter per County)

NB: This is cost for air drilling in Kenya

KES 6,500

KES. 12,000

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

KES 6,900

KES 9,500

KES 7,600

KES 9,500

KES 7,500

KES 9,500

KES 7,000

KES 9,500

KES 6,800

KES 9,500

KES 7,700

KES 9,500

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

KES 8,000

KES 9,500

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

KES 6,500

KES 9,500

Loose soils are generally more costly than rocky soils. This is technically referred to as wet and dry drilling respectively. All our drilling covers actual drilling, casing, test pumping and water analysis.

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Requirements for drilling a borehole in Kenya

In order to drill a borehole in Kenya, the following are required:

1. Hydrogeological survey

This is done to determine the underground water potential. A hydrogeology survey report will give an estimate of the drilling depth, site location and the nature of rock and soil formation which will assist in determining casing materials and the cost of drilling. This survey must be done with an independent, qualified and registered hydrogeologist. The cost of hydrogeological survey in Kenya ranges between Kes. 50,000 to Kes. 110,000 depending on the location.

2. WRA (Water Resource Authority) Permit.

Water Resource Authority is state cooperation that regulates use of all water resources. They issue borehole drilling license and authorize drilling once the hydrogeologist report is ready. For you to be licensed by the WRMA, an application needs to be done online or physically visit their offices located across the country. WRA gives authorization licenses which is a green light to drill a borehole. They then issue a water permit that gives you permission to access the water resources as much as you want.

3. NEMA (National Environment Management Authority) Permit

This assesses the effect of drilling on the environment. The report gives both positive and negative impacts on the environment incase drilling is done. If the project will not have negative impacts that may be hazardous to the environment, then a green light permit is given by them

Once all the above are met, drilling will proceed.

Borehole Drilling Price In Kenya

Drilling Method
What it entails
Price in KES Per Meter
1. Air drillingDrilling on stable ground that has a proper rock formation beneathKES 6,700
2. Mud drillingDrilling on loose ground that has no or minimal rock beneath

KES 13,050

 

Cost of Drilling A Borehole in Kenya

Details

 ProcessCost Per Meter- Air drilling methodCost Per Meter- Mud drilling method
1MobilisationKES 420KES 420
2DrillingKES 3,220KES 9,470
3CasingKES 2,269KES 2,569
4GravelingKES 280KES 180
5Well developmentKES 70KES 70
6Test pumpingKES 420KES 320
7Water chemical analysisKES 21KES 21
 TotalKES 6,700KES 13,050

Note that the mobilisation cost varies with the location. The cost of drilling a borehole in Nakuru will be different from the cost of drilling a borehole in Wajir

sample test pumping report
Sample Test Pumping Report
sample water analysis report
Sample Borehole Water Analysis Report

How to drill a borehole in Kenya; What the drilling cost entails

 

1.Mobilisation

This is the transfer to the well site of the rig, equipment, and labor. We cost mobilisation by distance. A borehole project 500 km away from our office will cost more for mobilisation than one that is 50 km away. Mobilisation costs allow for bush clearing and site preparation costs. This is to prepare the borehole drilling site for the drilling rig and all other heavy equipment

2. Borehole drilling.

This is the actual process of sinking a well in the ground in order to obtain water. The depth of sinking depends on the reading of the hydro-geological survey report. This report states the depth, amount of water expected, and the geological structure of the soil and rock underneath. The common size of the borehole well is 8 inches in diameter, but the surface section is 10 inches. Some wells are larger, going up to 14 inches in diameter

3. Casing

We line the walls of the borehole with mild steel or polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) casings. This is to keep the wall from collapsing throughout the lifetime of the borehole. We install 4mm–4.5mm thick steel casings where the well has boulders and where mud drilling is conducted. uPVC casings are installed in wells that lack boulders or that are rich in sand, and the water is highly saline. High salinity causes intense rusting on steel casings over time, hence the preference for uPVC casings in such wells

 

4. There are 2 types of casings

4.1. Continuous casings. They line the sections where the aquifer(s) is absent. They serve as water storage units because this is where the water is held. Surface casing are set from the mouth of the well downwards to the point where the walls are stronger. It could be as short as 3M, or as deep as 30M. Surface casings are 8″ in diameter

4.2. Slotted casings. They line the aquifer sections to allow water into the well. The slots are 1mm to 2mm in size

Our installation ratio of continuous and slotted casings is 70:30. This ensures maximum percolation of the water from the aquifer into the borehole

5. Graveling

           It is the application of gravel sand between the borehole walls and the mild steel casings. Gravel filters soil and other impurities and keeps the casings firmly in position. Our gravel size is 2mm to 4mm, and well rounded

6. Flushing and capping

            The well is cleaned of all chippings, a process referred to as flushing which is done after casing and also after graveling. Where casing is not carried out, flushing is done too. It is the process of pushing water within the well under intense pressure, then releasing it as a jet from the mouth of the well. Flushing allows optimal water flow from the aquifer to the well, and it precedes test pumping. In a high yielding borehole, the water within the well is used to clean it up. Where the well is low in yield, additional water is sourced for externally and added into the well.

7. Test pumping

           We draw out borehole water for 24 hours. This shows the yield of the well, recharge rate and water level. It is with this report that we determine the right solar or electric submersible water pump. Before the test pumping process, we determine the most suitable test pumping water pump and the right pipe diameter to use based on the estimated volume of water in the well. Our test pumping pipe diameter sizes are installed as;

Estimated Borehole YieldTest Pumping Pipe Diameter
0.5 – 10 cubic litres per hour1″
11 – 25 cubic litres per hour1-1/2″
> 25 cubic litres per hour

2″

Having the right test pumping pump and pipe diameter size is key in achieving the right yield of the well

8. Water chemical analysis

Laboratory analysis of the chemical composition of the borehole water

Borehole Drilling Procedure in Kenya

 

1. Hydrogeological survey

This is to establish the soil formation, depth and location of where the actual drilling will be done. It also assists in getting the required government approvals such as NEMA and WARMA certificates.

2. Actual Drilling

Actual drilling involves machine (drilling rig) mobilization and drilling. Drilling begins from above ground upto the recommended depth by the hydrogeologist. During drilling, casing is also done using steel or plastic casings. Borehole casing helps in preventing the borehole from collapsing and prevents impurities from contaminating the borehole water.

3. Test Pumping

Once drilling is complete, test pumping is done to determine the borehole yield or capacity in m3 per hour (m3/hr) This is done by continuously pumping water out of the borehole for 24 hours. Test pumping also helps in selecting the right pump for the borehole.

4. Water Chemical Analysis.

This is done to determine the suitability of the borehole water for drinking, irrigation or any other use. Some boreholes produce pure neutral water while others may produce salty water which may require treatment before use.

5. Borehole Equipping.

This entails the installation of PVC plastic casings and pumps. Electric submersibles, solar submersibles, or diesel pumps may be installed, depending on expert advice. Pipes immersed into the borehole may be uPVC pipes or HDPE pipes, depending on the depth.

Sample Flushing Report for a Borehole
complete borehole design showing all parts
borehole sketch showing all parts of a complete borehole

6. Auxiliary Services

Includes optional extra services such as installation of pipes, plumbing, irrigation, tank tower construction, tank installation, etc. There is a separate quote for these additions.

 

Borehole drilling timelines

ActivityAppox No of Days
Hydrogeological survey & report writing7 days
WRMA/NEMA Permits15-30 days
Actual Drilling4- 10 days
Equipping (Pump Installation)1-2 days
Time taken to drill a borehole in Kenya

Borehole Drilling Questions

FAQs to Borehole Drilling Services in Kenya

How much is drilling a borehole in Kenya?

As the best borehole drilling company in Kenya, we tailor our price according to the hydro-geological survey result finding

How many meters is a borehole?

From 50M and below, a well qualifies as a borehole

What is the average depth of a borehole in Kenya?

None. This is by location only because the variances  are large.

How do you know where to drill a borehole?

Through a hydro-geological survey by an independent hydro-geologist. It determines; water availability at which point, how much water, and at what depth

How long does a borehole last?

It lasts in as much as the water table or aquifer remains

What is a good borehole yield?

It depends on water usage. For domestic use, a yield of 2 cubic meters per day is sufficient for a homestead. For farming, a higher yield is better

Can a borehole be drilled anywhere?

No. Only where there is a water aquifer. This is why a hydro-geological survey is conducted to show exactly where the water source is

Can borehole water run out?

Yes it does when the water aquifer dries up

Do I need permission to drill a borehole?

Yes, permission must be sought. 3 certificates and permits are needed in order of priority listed below

  1. Water Resource Management Authority (WARMA) certificate
  2. National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA)
  3. County government permit (in counties that demand this)
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