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Why you should get a BOREHOLE

September 9, 2025 by
MARK OKEMA

5 Signs Your Farm or Home Needs a Borehole, And Is It a Worthy Investment?

Water is life. Whether you’re running a farm or managing a household, reliable access to clean water is non-negotiable. Unfortunately, many homes and farms in Kenya face water shortages, high costs, or unreliable supply. That’s where a borehole comes in, a sustainable solution that can secure your water needs for decades.

But how do you know when it’s time to invest in one? Here are five clear signs:

1. Unreliable Water Supply

If your taps run dry too often or you depend on county council water that only comes a few days a week, it’s a big red flag. Farms and households both suffer when water is inconsistent. A borehole gives you independence from water rationing and guarantees a steady supply.

2. High Water Bills

Paying thousands of shillings every month for water can add up quickly. If your bills are consistently high because of irrigation, livestock, or household use, drilling a borehole is a smart long-term investment. After installation, your only costs are pumping and maintenance, which are far lower than recurring bills. If you run it on Solar Power, the better. No more costs.

3. Growing Water Demand

Have you expanded your farm, added more livestock, or built rental houses? Increased water needs can overwhelm your current source. A borehole grows with you, it’s scalable and ensures you’ll never be forced to cut back on your plans because of water shortages.

4. Poor Water Quality

Sometimes county council water or surface water isn’t clean enough for drinking or irrigation. If you constantly battle with murky, salty, or contaminated water, a borehole can provide fresh, safe groundwater (after proper testing and treatment). Clean water protects your family’s health and boosts farm productivity.

5. Dependence on Rainwater

Relying solely on rain-fed systems is risky in Kenya’s changing climate. Unpredictable rainfall means unpredictable yields. A borehole ensures your crops and livestock thrive even in the dry season, giving you control and resilience against drought.

Is a Borehole a Worthy Investment?

The short answer is YES. While the upfront cost may feel significant, the long-term benefits outweigh it:

Cost Savings: Reduced monthly water bills.

Sustainability: A borehole can last more than 30 years with proper maintenance.

Independence: You control your own water supply.

Farm Productivity: Steady water means steady harvests, in and out of season.

Property Value: Homes and farms with boreholes are more attractive to buyers and tenants.

In other words, a borehole is not just about water. It’s about security, savings, and sustainability.

Final Word

If you’ve noticed one or more of the signs above, it may be the right time to explore drilling a borehole. With expert guidance, proper hydrogeological surveys, and the right equipment, your investment will serve you and future generations.


To get help setting up your borehole, Contact Eng. Okema on 0715 361 671

Step by Step Guide to the borehole drilling process in Kenya