The Upper Tana-Nairobi Water Fund is a transformative tool that socially, economically and environmentally connects the source water and its protectors upstream (Upper Tana) with the fresh water beneficiaries downstream (Nairobi). It is a change catalyst using nature based solutions to spur conservation initiatives that are driven by public and private sector together with the civil society members. Its exemplary governance structure, the inclusive collaboration mechanism of all stakeholders and its funding through an endowment fund are the key to its reliability, consistent and long-lasting deliveries benefiting both upstream and downstream communities all towards a clean, healthy and secure environment.