In Kenya, a water tank is not a luxury; it is a survival kit. With municipal water supply in cities like Nairobi and towns across the country becoming increasingly erratic, households are forced to take matters into their own hands. The market is flooded with options, but navigating the price vs. quality trade-off can be daunting. From the ubiquitous yellow tanks to the sturdy black cylinders, knowing what to buy can save you thousands of shillings and future headaches.

The most popular segment for urban households is the plastic cylindrical tank, prized for its durability and ease of installation. Prices vary significantly based on brand reputation, with market leaders like Kentank and Roto commanding a premium over newer entrants. A standard 1,000-litre tank—sufficient for a small family for a few days—now retails between 8,000 and 13,680 Kenyan Shillings depending on the manufacturer and the retailer's location.

Price Watch by Capacity

For those looking to install storage, here is the current market intelligence on pricing for standard plastic tanks:

• Small (150L - 250L): Ideal for kitchen backups or handwashing stations. Prices range from KES 2,000 to KES 6,000.
• Medium (500L - 1,000L): The standard for most apartments. A 500L tank costs between KES 4,000 and KES 9,280, while the 1,000L unit will set you back KES 8,000 to KES 14,000.
• Large (1,500L - 2,500L): For homeowners and larger families. Expect to pay between KES 11,200 and KES 24,120.
• Jumbo (5,000L+): For institutions or serious farming. These start from KES 30,000 and can go up to KES 100,000 for 10,000L capacities.

Brand Wars: Kentank vs. Roto vs. Jumbo

Kentank (by Kentainers) remains a market leader, often cited for its UV stabilization which prevents the plastic from degrading in the harsh Kenyan sun. Roto Tanks are their primary competitor, offering similar quality and often fighting on price margins. Jumbo Quality Products has carved a niche with competitive pricing for underground and loft tanks.

“The mistake many buyers make is looking only at the price tag,” advises Faith Achieng, a water engineer. “A cheap tank that cracks after two years is expensive. Look for the warranty and the wall thickness.” As climate change exacerbates water scarcity, investing in a quality tank is effectively investing in peace of mind.