NAIROBI — The Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company has appointed Martin Nangole as its Acting Managing Director, stepping into the role after a court barred the extension of his predecessor’s tenure.
Eng. Nahashon Muguna, who had served as the utility’s chief, retired this month upon reaching the mandatory age limit. His departure followed a High Court ruling in May that blocked any effort to prolong his contract. The judges said keeping him on would breach the law and noted there was no evidence he held rare skills that might justify an exception.
In a statement, the company’s board confirmed Mr Nangole’s interim appointment, effective from September 26. “This interim appointment arises due to the position being declared vacant and shall remain in effect subject to substantive recruitment of the position,” Board Chair Arnold Karanja wrote in a letter seen by reporters.
The decision comes as Nairobi faces recurring water shortages, a challenge that has left millions of residents struggling with irregular supply. Mr Nangole, who has held senior roles within the utility, will now oversee operations as the board begins the search for a permanent successor.
Analysts say leadership at the water company will be closely watched, given its central role in managing the capital’s fragile infrastructure. For now, the appointment marks the start of a transition period at one of the city’s most critical public service providers.
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