Kenya’s Principal Secretary (PS) of the State Department for Water and Sanitation, Julius Korir, CBS, on Wednesday chaired a National Steering Committee meeting to assess the progress of the Kenya Towns Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation Program (KTSWSSP). The meeting, held in Nairobi, brought together Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and technical officers from all implementing agencies to address challenges and expedite ongoing projects.
The KTSWSSP is a flagship initiative jointly funded by the Government of Kenya and the African Development Bank (AfDB). The program is designed to enhance water supply and sanitation infrastructure across urban centers, benefiting millions of Kenyans. Currently, the program is supporting 51 water and sanitation projects, with an overall completion rate of approximately 88% in relation to the original scope.
During the meeting, the steering committee conducted a comprehensive review of project implementation status, focusing on bottlenecks that may be hindering timely completion. The discussions aimed to find sustainable solutions to ensure efficient resource utilization and adherence to set timelines.
PS Korir emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that all projects under the KTSWSSP are delivered within schedule. He noted that the remaining 12% of work requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to overcome technical, financial, and logistical hurdles. “We must fast-track these projects to ensure they are completed on time and serve their intended purpose. Water and sanitation are critical pillars of our national development agenda, and every effort must be made to meet our targets,” he stated.
Key issues highlighted during the meeting included delays in procurement processes, land acquisition challenges, and the need for enhanced coordination among implementing agencies. The PS urged all stakeholders to work collaboratively to address these issues promptly. He further called upon contractors and service providers to adhere to contractual agreements to avoid unnecessary delays.
The committee also discussed the importance of community engagement in ensuring the success of the program. Public awareness and stakeholder involvement were cited as crucial elements in securing local support and preventing disruptions.
Representatives from the African Development Bank reiterated their commitment to supporting Kenya’s efforts in improving water and sanitation infrastructure. They commended the government’s progress in implementing the program and encouraged continuous dialogue to resolve any emerging challenges.
As the KTSWSSP approaches completion, focus will be placed on ensuring sustainability and efficiency in the management of completed projects. The government aims to leverage technology and best practices in water management to optimize service delivery and maximize benefits for urban residents.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from all stakeholders to fast-track remaining projects and address outstanding issues. With continued collaboration, the KTSWSSP is expected to significantly enhance water supply and sanitation services across Kenya, improving the quality of life for millions and contributing to national economic growth.
