Unlocking Kenya's Water Future

The Final Joint Coordination Meeting for the Project for Strengthening the Capacity of Water Service Providers (WSPs) on Formulating Bankable Project Plans was successfully chaired by the Principal Secretary for Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, Mr. Julius Korir, CBS.

The strategic project, supported by JICA, has enhanced the capabilities of WSPs to develop investment-ready projects for sustainable water future.

We are proud to celebrate the five water utilities that have successfully completed this comprehensive program:
1. Ruiru-Juja Water & Sewerage Company Limited (RUJWASCO)
2. Murang'a Water & Sanitation Company Limited (MUWASCO)
3. Embu Water and Sanitation Company Limited (EWASCO)
4. Meru Water and Sewerage Services Company limited (MEWASCO)
5. Nanyuki Water and Sanitation Company Limited (NAWASCO)

The development of "bankable" project plans signifies a critical step forward. It equips these utilities to prepare robust, compelling proposals capable of securing the financing required to expand water infrastructure, modernize systems, and enhance the reliability of water services for communities.

The key project outcomes of the project include:
✅ Enhanced Instititional Capacity: WSPs are now better equipped to formulate bankable project plans and effectively engage financial institutions.
✅ National Impact: The project informed the development of new national guidelines by Water Services Regulatory Board (WASREB).
✅ Strategic Action Plan: An action plan is now in place to tackle challenges and unlock more financing for the water sector.

As PS Julius Korir emphasized, financially resilient and well-managed utilities are the cornerstone of delivering sustainable water to all Kenyans. The call to action is clear: intensify efforts to reduce Non-Revenue Water, strengthen governance, and embrace innovative ways to mobilize resources.

Mr. HAMANO Satoshi, Senior Representative of JICA, outlined key reforms to strengthen the water sector. He urged the Ministry to advocate for a review of the Public Finance Management Act to improve WSPs' borrowing capacity and to expedite the transfer of assets. Furthermore, he recommended the strategic consolidation of Water Service Providers into fewer, larger regional clusters to enhance management efficiency and financial viability. He also stressed the need for the Ministry to spearhead a national campaign to reduce Non-Revenue Water.

We extend our sincere appreciation to all partners who contributed to this achievement, including the Water Secretary Eng. S.A.O. Alima, CBS, the Water and Sanitation Providers Association (WASPA), WASREB, and the Water Sector Trust Fund (WSTF).

This collaboration between the Government of Kenya and JICA extends beyond capacity building, it is a concerted effort to secure a future where every Kenyan has access to clean, safe, and reliable water.