Calls Grow for Stronger Implementation of Kenya's Water Governance Reforms

Stakeholders have renewed calls for improved implementation of Kenya’s water governance reforms. A high-level roundtable under the Catchment to Tap (C2T) Programme focused on Basin Water Resource Committees (BWRCs).

The discussions exposed a persistent gap between policy design and on-ground execution. Weak institutional coordination continues to limit access to reliable water despite heavy investments in infrastructure and regulatory reforms.

Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Eng. Eric Mugaa addressed the delegates. He cited inadequate financing and political interference as major threats to sustainability.

The Netherlands Ambassador Henk Jan Bakker acknowledged Kenya’s strong legal framework. He however stressed the need to move from frameworks to actual delivery for communities.

World Wide Fund for Nature-Kenya (WWF-Kenya) Chief Executive Officer Jackson Kiplagat described water security as central to sustainable development. He highlighted the role of BWRCs in integrated management at basin level.

County representatives called for fuller integration of devolved governments into basin structures. They noted counties’ frontline role in service delivery.

Water Services Providers Association Chair Thomas Odongo emphasised collaboration among BWRCs, Water Resource Users Associations (WRUAs) and providers. This would enhance efficiency across the sector.

Kenya Water and Sanitation Civil Society Network (KEWASNET) Chief Executive Officer Malesi Shivaji pointed to inclusivity. BWRCs rank among the most inclusive institutions under the Water Act.

Water Resources Authority (WRA) Chief Executive Officer Mohammed Shurie noted ongoing amendments to the Water Act 2016. These aim to address structural gaps slowing BWRC operationalisation.

The five-year Catchment to Tap (C2T) Programme supported WRUAs, household access and citizen science for water quality.

Participants concluded that BWRCs are key to resolving allocation disputes and ensuring equitable access. Attention must now shift to execution and accountability.

For the construction sector reliable water supply remains critical. Projects often face disruptions due to shortages or poor coordination. Stronger governance could reduce such risks.