Kenya’s water utility company is set to automate water billing system in the capital Nairobi, to upscale service delivery to consumers.
Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company (NCWSC), has developed a robust framework to aid in automation of water billing system, meter reading and disconnection among other key functions undertaken by the water utility.
The framework will change numerous functions of the firm’s operations such as online application for water and sewer connections. NCWSC has called upon clients to embrace the technological changes and undertake the online applications at the convenience of their homes, office desks or anywhere without necessarily having to be physically present at the NCWSC offices.
NCWSC board has opened communication channels to ensure clients access the company’s services conveniently and in the long run eradicate frequent water related complaints that have been a challenge in the city.
“Nairobi residents will now be able to report corruption cases that make service delivery a night mare resulting in delayed or no serves to the clients,” Board Chairperson Berly Okumu said.
The board has also categorically stated the eradication of water cartels by allowing only eligible suppliers to undergo inspection and approval for water trading activities in the city. NCWSC will also minimize the non-revenue water loss from the current 36% to 25% to reduces the amount of water not billed.
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The firm’s board of directors have also hinted at infrastructural upgrade to ensure seamless flow of water to residential homes and commercial premises including the informal settlements.
NCWSC has already issued a notice to inform its customers of an ongoing exercise to replace old water meters within Nairobi County. “This exercise is in line with the Company’s policy to ensure that all water meters aged 10 years and above are replaced to ensure our customers get accurate bills, reduce un-accounted water as well as enhancing service delivery.”
In cooperation with the Office of the President through the Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) and the African Union High representative for infrastructure development, NCWSC board has committed to ensuring increased supply of clean water throughout Nairobi County.
Water supply to the city and its suburbs currently is 35% below the overall demand. The shortage has resulted in water rationing over a period of time now.
According to Okumu, the company will actualize the Northern Collector Tunnel project under construction and build two more dams to supply the city. The government of kenya has launched an initiative to unconditionally supply water to people living in the informal settlements as measure to curb the spread of coronavirus.
The Ministry of Health has emphasized the need to wash hands on a regular basis with running water and soap hence the need to adequate water supply.
Renewal of water and sewerage infrastructure remains a critical concern. NCWSC has secured about US $166 million for sewers extension and upgrade in the city and the targeted areas. It has also embarked on the overall renewal of the old water piping infrastructure in major Nairobi estates and some major supply lines.
Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company is tasked with providing water and sewerage services to the residents of Nairobi.
