Kitui County Water Department Validates Draft Water Policy and Bill

The Kitui County Government, under the leadership of Governor Dr. Julius Malombe, is committed to increasing resource allocation for the water sector to ensure the county achieves universal water coverage by 2030. This was stated by Kitui’s Minister for Water and Irrigation, Peter Nkunda.

Speaking during the opening ceremony of a stakeholders’ forum on the validation of the draft Kitui County Water Policy and the Kitui Water Services Bill 2024, Nkunda emphasized the importance of community engagement in safeguarding water projects to ensure their sustainability. He urged participants to conduct civic education on the protection and proper management of these projects.

Nkunda noted that the draft policy and bill aim to address the county’s water challenges and promote responsible management of water resources for the benefit of all residents.

Water Chief Officer Nathan Vungo added that, once finalized and adopted, the new policy and legislation would enhance water management and accountability in service delivery to both rural and urban communities.

The draft policy and bill are being finalized with support from USAID Stawi. The validation process was attended by USAID Stawi’s Deputy Chief of Party, Ronald Kubasu, who commended the ministry for its efforts to professionalize water service delivery in the county. He noted that the initiative would significantly improve water governance and the sustainable management of water resources.

Also in attendance were key county officials, including the Governor’s Advisors Dr. Grace Mutua (Climate Change) and Jefferson Kiruru (Policy), along with senior county officials led by Water Director Eng. Kennedy Mutati. Representatives from water service providers and partners such as NDMA, World Vision, CMMB, Tanathi, Caritas, WHH, and Fundifix were also present.

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