Waiguru highlights Kirinyaga County progress in water management reforms

The company has achieved a notable reduction in Non-Revenue Water (NRW), which dropped from 59% in June 2022 to 52% by the end of October 2023.

NRW refers to water lost due to unmetered connections, illegal hookups, ageing infrastructure, leakages, and pipe bursts.

Addressing the Senate Committee on County Public Investment and Special Funds, Waiguru said these reforms are designed to ensure prudent management of KICOWASCO and the provision of affordable, quality water and sanitation services for county residents.

“In the next year, we are committed to reducing NRW to below 35%. The company’s roadmap, aligned with its 2021-2026 strategic plan, has identified key contributors to NRW, outlined action plans, and earmarked necessary resources to achieve these targets,” Waiguru stated.

The governor added that the county had implemented Senate recommendations, including taking full control of KICOWASCO’s management. She also confirmed that efforts are underway to recruit a new Managing Director to guide the company toward sustainable growth.

“On the Senate’s recommendation, we have introduced far-reaching governance and management reforms to bring the company back on track, and the results are starting to show,” she said.

To expand water access, the county government has initiated numerous supply projects in areas previously without piped water. Plans are also in place to meter all water connections, which is expected to further reduce losses.

Waiguru informed the committee, chaired by Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, that the transfer of water company assets from the national government to the county is ongoing. However, challenges remain, including the transfer of land parcels and water tanks that have yet to be listed in KICOWASCO’s asset register.

“This issue requires urgent attention through the Council of Governors (CoG) as it affects counties nationwide,” Waiguru explained.

Senator Osotsi commended Kirinyaga County for implementing Senate recommendations and noted the importance of addressing NRW. “Ensuring that every drop of water is metered will maximize benefits for residents,” he said.

The reforms aim to secure sustainable water management and enhance service delivery for the people of Kirinyaga.