Martin Nangole has been appointed Acting Managing Director of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company, stepping in after the retirement of Eng. Nahashon Muguna, who has reached the mandatory retirement age.

In a statement released on Friday, the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company Board said the decision ensures continuity as the company transitions to new leadership.

“Acknowledging that Eng. Miguna cannot serve past December 2025. Nairobi Water formally designated Nangole as Acting Managing Director to steer the company as succession plans take shape,” the Board announced.

Adding;

 “This interim appointment arises due to the position being declared vacant and shall remain in effect subject to the substantive recruitment of the position.”

The leadership change comes in the wake of a High Court ruling delivered on May 2, 2025, which barred any extension of Muguna’s term beyond December this year.

“No evidence that Muguna possessed rare knowledge, skills, or competencies that were scarce, unique, and not readily available in the job market,” the judges said.

The Board described Nangole as a steady hand who will provide leadership at a critical time for the water utility. He is expected to oversee daily operations, guide long-term strategies, and sign a performance contract outlining key targets.

Nangole welcomed the appointment and pledged to focus on improving service delivery.

“This is a critical moment for Nairobi Water, and I commit to working closely with the Board, staff, and stakeholders to ensure uninterrupted service delivery to Nairobi residents,” he said.

Muguna, who has led the company since 2021, exits after a tenure that included key infrastructure upgrades but was also marked by persistent water shortages in parts of the capital.

The court’s decision not only ended his tenure but also directed the Board to conduct a fair and competitive process to recruit a substantive Managing Director.

Nairobi Water continues to face challenges such as ageing infrastructure, rising demand for water, and the need to modernise its distribution network. The Board said it expects Nangole’s interim leadership to provide stability as it searches for a permanent successor capable of tackling these issues.