Story by Albert Mwangeka 

In a strategic move to achieve universal access to water for all, Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) have successfully engaged with the county’s draft Water Bill and Policy.

Noting the important role played by MCAs in legislating for community needs and promoting sustainable development, Grantone Mwandawiro, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water, Sanitation, Environment, Climate Change, and Natural Resources, further highlighted the benefits of the documents.

“H.E. Dr. Governor Andrew Mwadime’s administration will be guided by a legal framework to address issues of people walking for miles to fetch water. Water remains a priority area, and the blueprint is set to create modalities for establishing a rural water company that will ensure access to this precious resource at a lower price,” CECM Mwandawiro added.

Ag Speaker Anselim Mwadime noted that, in line with the County Assembly’s role in legislation, representation, and oversight, the Bill is set to be fast-tracked by the house to realize a roadmap that allows easier access to water for communities.

Consultant Professor Albert Muma emphasized how the engagement exercise is aimed at equipping MCAs with knowledge to pave the way for better availability of water to grassroots-level populations and ensuring the affordability of this precious commodity.

Deputy Chief of Party USAID-STAWI Ronald Kubasu stated that the expected impact is to yield the desired prosperity in water security and resilience.

With donor partner USAID-STAWI being instrumental in the formulation of the documents, the next steps include tabling the draft Bill 2024 before the cabinet, then progressing to the County Assembly for review, being subjected to public participation, and ultimately being enacted by the Governor into law.