Borehole Drilling requirements in Kenya.

Before beginning the drilling process of a borehole in Kenya, one requires licenses from different relevant authorities and has to undergo a certain process.

The process begins by doing a hydro geological survey and getting a report,then apply for a drilling permit from Water Resource Management Authority (WRMA). The next step after this is the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and get the approval/Licence from NEMA

Hydro geological survey and report

Before drilling, a hydrogeological survey is carried out to ascertain suitable sites for a borehole. It involves the detailed evaluation of the water-bearing levels of rocks and their capability for filtration. Moreover, the intrinsic ability of these rocks to either store or resist water is also assessed. The pressure, type and quality of the underground water is noted, delving into the intensity of the water flow through pores or fractures. This survey must be carried out by a qualified and registered geologist. A basic survey comprises the following:

• Establish the needs of the end-user regarding the location and quantity of groundwater required

• Nearby boreholes

• Evaluation of the quality of groundwater

• Appraisal of the catchment area

• Borehole construction and design recommendations

• Assessment of risk to health or environment

• The amount of groundwater that is anticipated from the given location

WRMA Borehole permit

WRMA is an Agent of the National Government of Kenya responsible for regulating the management and use of water resources.You will need an abstraction license from WRMA once the geologist is satisfied with the ground water potential.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) & NEMA Permit

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a critical examination of the effects of a project on the environment. The EIA report must be done before drilling a borehole in Kenya and other construction work.

This report must be approved by the NEMA authorities in order to issue the permit and if NEMA is satisfied with the proposed drilling not having undesirable impact on the immediate environment, the organization will issue a license and drilling may then commence.