Looking for a Mesh Tank in Kenya? Learn about prices, sizes, benefits, and where to buy strong and durable mesh water tanks for homes and farms.
This guide covers everything you need to know about mesh water tanks in Kenya. You will learn what they are, how they work, the types available, prices in 2026, and where to buy them.
What Is a Mesh Tank?
A mesh tank is a large water storage tank made from a galvanized steel wire frame and a PVC liner inside. The steel mesh frame gives the tank its shape and strength. The PVC liner holds the water and keeps it clean.
Mesh tanks are also called wire mesh tanks, galvanized mesh tanks, or tank wire liners. They are used for storing large amounts of water in one place.
This type of tank is popular in Kenya because it can hold very large volumes of water. Sizes start from 10,000 litres and can go up to 200,000 litres or more. This makes them useful for farms, irrigation projects, schools, factories, and community water storage.
Why Mesh Tanks Are Popular in Kenya
Water is a big challenge in many parts of Kenya. Rain does not fall every month. Boreholes and pipes sometimes run dry. Many areas go without water for weeks or months at a time.
A mesh tank helps solve this problem. You can store large amounts of water when it is available and use it later when it is not.
Here are the main reasons why Kenyans choose mesh tanks:
They are affordable for their size. A 50,000 litre mesh tank costs around KSh 200,000. A plastic tank of the same size would cost much more and be harder to transport.
They are easy to move. The tank is sent in parts and put together at the site. This makes it easy to transport even to remote areas with small roads.
They are quick to install. A team can set up a mesh tank in one or two days. There is no need for heavy construction or concrete work.
They last a long time. The galvanized steel frame resists rust for many years. The PVC liner can be replaced if it gets damaged, which costs less than buying a whole new tank.
They can be used for many purposes. Mesh tanks are used for drinking water, irrigation, fish farming (aquaculture), livestock watering, and industrial use.
Types of Mesh Tanks Available in Kenya
Standard Mesh Water Tank (PVC Liner)
This is the most common type in Kenya. It has a galvanized steel mesh frame and a thick PVC bladder inside.
Features:
- Galvanized steel frame that resists rust
- Food-grade PVC liner for safe water storage
- Round or cylindrical shape
- Available in many sizes from 10,000 litres to 50,000 litres and above
- Can be set up on flat ground without a concrete base
Good for: Home use, farms, schools, churches, community water projects, livestock
Price in 2026:
- 10,000 litres: KSh 40,000
- 20,000 litres: KSh 85,000
- 30,000 litres: KSh 120,000
- 40,000 litres: KSh 160,000
- 50,000 litres: KSh 200,000
Corrugated Galvanized Steel Tank
This is a stronger version made from corrugated (wavy) galvanized steel sheets bolted together. It is bigger and heavier than the standard mesh tank.
Features:
- Thick corrugated steel walls
- PVC or bitumen liner inside
- Bolted panel design for easy assembly
- Very high capacity options available
- Very durable and long-lasting
Good for: Large farms, water utilities, county governments, big irrigation schemes, industrial use
Price in 2026:
- 30,000 litres: KSh 240,000
- 50,000 litres: KSh 330,000
- 100,000 litres: KSh 600,000
- 200,000 litres: KSh 1,100,000
Collapsible Mesh Tank (Portable)
This is a foldable tank that can be put up and taken down quickly. It is made from a flexible mesh frame and a waterproof fabric liner.
Features:
- Folds flat when empty
- Very quick to set up
- Easy to carry to different locations
- Smaller sizes available compared to fixed mesh tanks
Good for: Emergency water storage, military and NGO field operations, temporary water supply during construction
Price in 2026: Varies by supplier. Contact suppliers directly for quotes on this type.
How a Mesh Tank Works
A mesh tank works in a simple way. The steel mesh forms a strong cage around the outside. The PVC liner sits inside the cage like a bag. Water goes into the liner through a pipe at the top. Water comes out through a tap or pipe at the bottom.
The mesh frame holds the pressure of the water. The liner stops the water from leaking. Together, they make a strong and reliable tank.
The liner is the most important part to take care of. As long as the liner has no holes or tears, the tank will hold water well.
What Are Mesh Tanks Used For in Kenya?
Mesh tanks are used in many settings across Kenya.
Farming and Irrigation
This is the most common use. Farmers fill mesh tanks with rainwater or borehole water. They then connect the tank to a drip irrigation system or pipes to water their crops. A 50,000 litre mesh tank can supply water for a one-acre farm for several weeks.
Livestock Watering
Cattle, goats, and sheep need a lot of water every day. A mesh tank stores enough water to keep large herds drinking well during dry seasons. This is very important in arid areas like Turkana, Marsabit, and Kajiado.
Fish Farming (Aquaculture)
Mesh tanks are used as fish ponds. The PVC liner holds water well and the tank can be set up anywhere. Many small-scale fish farmers in Kenya use mesh tanks to raise tilapia and catfish.
Domestic Water Storage
Families in areas with unreliable water supply use mesh tanks to store water at home. A 10,000 or 20,000 litre tank can supply a household for many months.
Schools and Institutions
Schools, clinics, and churches use mesh tanks for rainwater harvesting. A tank is placed under a roof gutter. Rainwater flows from the roof into the tank. The stored water is then used for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Construction Sites
Builders need a lot of water for mixing concrete and other work. A mesh tank on site saves trips to buy water.
Emergency and Disaster Relief
NGOs and county governments use mesh tanks during drought or disaster relief operations. They can be transported quickly and set up fast in affected areas.
How to Choose the Right Mesh Tank
Choosing the right mesh tank depends on a few things.
How much water do you need to store?
This is the most important question. Think about how much water you use per day and how many days you want to store water for. A family of six uses about 300 to 500 litres per day. A 10,000 litre tank will last them about three weeks. A farm running drip irrigation may need 30,000 litres or more.
What will you use the water for?
Drinking water needs a food-grade PVC liner. Make sure the supplier confirms the liner is safe for drinking water. For irrigation or fish farming, a standard liner is fine.
How much space do you have?
Mesh tanks are round and wide. A 50,000 litre tank has a diameter of about 5 to 6 metres. Make sure you have enough flat space to set it up. The ground should be level and firm.
What is your budget?
Compare prices from at least two or three suppliers before you buy. Prices change depending on the supplier and where you are in Kenya. Ask if delivery and installation are included in the price.
Do you need the tank to be permanent or movable?
A standard mesh tank or corrugated steel tank is semi-permanent. Moving it requires taking it apart. A collapsible tank is easier to move. Choose based on your situation.
Mesh Tank Installation Guide
Installing a mesh tank is not very hard but it does require some preparation.
Step 1: Prepare the Ground
Clear the ground where the tank will sit. Remove stones, roots, and sharp objects. Level the surface. The ground must be flat so the tank sits evenly. Uneven ground puts stress on the liner and can cause it to tear.
Some people lay a layer of sand or place a rubber mat on the ground before setting up the tank. This protects the liner from sharp stones underneath.
Step 2: Set Up the Mesh Frame
Unroll the mesh panels and form them into a circle. Join the ends together using the clips or bolts provided. Make sure the frame stands upright and is evenly shaped.
For corrugated steel tanks, bolt the panels together following the instructions from the supplier.
Step 3: Place the Liner Inside
Spread the PVC liner inside the mesh frame. Make sure it covers the bottom and sides fully. Leave the top open.
Pull the top edge of the liner over the top of the mesh frame and secure it. Most liners come with a fold-over edge or straps for this.
Step 4: Connect the Pipes
Fit the inlet pipe at the top where water will come in. Fit the outlet tap or pipe at the bottom where water will come out.
Make sure all connections are tight. A leaking connection will waste water and wet the ground around the tank.
Step 5: Fill and Test
Fill the tank slowly at first. Check for any leaks at the seams, pipe connections, and the bottom. Fix any small leaks before filling the tank fully.
How Long Does Installation Take?
A small mesh tank of 10,000 to 20,000 litres can be set up by two people in about half a day. Larger tanks of 50,000 litres and above may take a full day or two people for two days.
Many suppliers in Kenya offer installation services. Ask your supplier if they can send a team to install the tank for you.
Mesh Tank Prices in Kenya 2026
Here is a summary of mesh tank prices in Kenya for 2026.
Standard Mesh Water Tanks (PVC Liner)
| Capacity | Price (KSh) |
|---|---|
| 10,000 litres | 40,000 |
| 20,000 litres | 85,000 |
| 30,000 litres | 120,000 |
| 40,000 litres | 160,000 |
| 50,000 litres | 200,000 |
Corrugated Galvanized Steel Tanks
| Capacity | Price (KSh) |
|---|---|
| 30,000 litres | 240,000 |
| 50,000 litres | 330,000 |
| 100,000 litres | 600,000 |
| 200,000 litres | 1,100,000 |
Prices depend on capacity, the supplier, your location, and whether delivery and installation are included. Always ask for a full quote that covers everything before you agree to buy.
Where to Buy Mesh Tanks in Kenya
Water Equation Solar Ltd supplies and installs mesh tanks across Kenya. They serve customers in Nairobi and countrywide. They also offer solar water pumping, borehole drilling, and irrigation systems. This means they can handle your full water project from start to finish.
Phone: [0738344112] Email: [[email protected]]
Tips When Buying
Get at least two or three quotes. Prices vary a lot between suppliers.
Ask whether delivery and installation are included. Some suppliers charge extra for these.
Ask about the liner quality. A food-grade liner is important if you are storing drinking water.
Check if the supplier offers a warranty or replacement for the liner if it tears.
Ask to see photos of past installations or visit a site where they have installed a tank before.
Mesh Tank Maintenance
A mesh tank does not need a lot of maintenance. But a few simple things will make it last much longer.
Keep the liner clean. Wash the inside of the liner at least once a year. Empty the tank, scrub the walls with a soft brush and clean water, then rinse well before refilling.
Check for holes or tears. Inspect the liner every few months. Small holes can be repaired with a PVC patch kit. Fix small holes before they grow bigger.
Keep the area around the tank clean. Remove grass, thorns, and sharp objects from around the base of the tank. These can damage the liner over time.
Protect the tank from animals. Goats and cattle can damage the liner if they chew on it or step on it. Put a fence around the tank if animals are nearby.
Check the mesh frame. Look for any bent or loose sections of the frame. A damaged frame puts extra pressure on the liner. Straighten bent sections and tighten any loose bolts.
Protect from direct sunlight (for PVC liners). Long-term exposure to strong sunlight can weaken the liner over time. If the tank is in a very sunny area, shade cloth over the top can help extend the life of the liner.
Mesh Tank vs. Plastic Tank vs. Corrugated Steel Tank
Many buyers in Kenya compare these three options before making a decision.
| Feature | Mesh Tank | Plastic Tank | Corrugated Steel Tank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best capacity range | 10,000 to 50,000 litres | 500 to 10,000 litres | 30,000 to 200,000+ litres |
| Price for large sizes | Affordable | Expensive | Higher upfront cost |
| Installation | Easy, no concrete needed | Simple | Needs careful assembly |
| Portability | Can be taken apart and moved | Easy to move at small sizes | Not easy to move |
| Durability | Good (liner may need replacing) | Good (UV can degrade plastic) | Very long-lasting |
| Best use | Farms, irrigation, community storage | Home, small-scale domestic | Large institutions, utilities |
For most Kenyan farmers and medium-sized water projects, a mesh tank gives the best value for money. Plastic tanks are better for small household storage. Corrugated steel tanks are best for very large projects.
Mesh Tank Reviews: What Kenyan Buyers Say
Kenyan buyers who have used mesh tanks often share three things they value most.
The first is how much water they can store for the money. Many buyers say they were surprised by how big a mesh tank they could get for their budget compared to plastic tanks.
The second is how easy it was to transport and set up. Buyers in rural areas with difficult roads say the fact that the tank comes in parts made delivery possible where a big plastic tank could not have reached.
The third thing buyers talk about is the liner. Most say the liner has lasted well when they look after it properly. A few buyers mention that they had to replace the liner after several years, but they found this was much cheaper than buying a whole new tank.
Final Thoughts
A mesh water storage tank is a smart investment for any Kenyan who needs to store large amounts of water. It is affordable, easy to install, and useful for many purposes from farming to drinking water to fish farming.
The key things to remember are to choose the right size for your needs, buy a good quality liner, and look after the tank properly. If you do these things, your mesh tank will serve you well for many years.
Get quotes from more than one supplier before you buy. Ask about delivery, installation, and the quality of the liner. A little time spent comparing options will save you money and problems later.
Water is life in Kenya. A mesh tank helps you keep water ready when you need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy a mesh tank in Kenya?
Water Equation Solar Ltd supplies and installs mesh tanks across Kenya. You can contact us for a quote. Other irrigation supply shops in Nairobi’s Industrial Area also stock mesh tanks.
What is the price of a mesh tank in Kenya in 2026?
Prices start from KSh 40,000 for a 10,000 litre tank. A 50,000 litre mesh tank costs around KSh 200,000. Larger corrugated steel tanks start from KSh 240,000 for 30,000 litres. Prices vary by supplier and location.
How long does a mesh tank last in Kenya?
The galvanized steel mesh frame can last 15 to 20 years or more. The PVC liner usually lasts 5 to 10 years depending on how well it is looked after. Liners can be replaced without replacing the whole frame, which saves money.
Can a mesh tank be used for drinking water?
Yes, but you must make sure the PVC liner is food-grade. Tell the supplier the water is for drinking so they supply the right type of liner. Also fit a filter at the inlet to keep dirt and insects out of the tank.
How do I compare different mesh tank sizes?
Think about how much water you use per day and how many days you want to store water for. Multiply daily use by the number of days to get the size you need. Add a little extra to be safe. Then compare prices for that size from different suppliers.
What is the best mesh tank supplier in Kenya?
The quality of the tank depends on the quality of the liner, frame, and installation. Water Equation Solar Ltd offers supply and professional installation of mesh tanks across Kenya. Always ask about the materials used and whether installation is included before you buy.
Can a mesh tank be used for fish farming?
Yes. Many small-scale fish farmers in Kenya use mesh tanks as fish ponds. They are easy to set up, hold water well, and can be placed anywhere with flat ground. Make sure the liner is in good condition to prevent leaks.
How do I clean a mesh tank?
Empty the tank completely. Use a soft brush and clean water to scrub the inside of the liner. Rinse it out well. Let it dry before refilling if possible. Do this at least once a year to keep the water clean and fresh.
Do I need a concrete base for a mesh tank?
No. A mesh tank does not need a concrete base. You just need level, firm ground. Clear away any sharp objects and put down a layer of sand or a rubber mat to protect the liner from the ground underneath.
Can a mesh tank be moved after installation?
Yes. You can take it apart and move it to a new location. Empty the tank first, remove the liner carefully, and take apart the frame. Then set it up again at the new location. This is one of the big advantages of mesh tanks over concrete tanks.
