Increase in Non-Revenue Water in Kenya: A Growing Concern

Kenya's water sector is grappling with a significant challenge as non-revenue water has risen from 44% to 48% during the 2024/25 financial year. This alarming increase translates to an annual loss of Sh13.7 billion, primarily due to leakages, theft, and inefficiencies. A new report from the Water Services Regulatory Board (Wasreb) underscores the severity of the situation, revealing that nearly half of all water produced fails to generate revenue.

The report indicates that Kenya loses approximately 242 million cubic metres of water each year, a statistic that raises concerns about the sustainability of water resources in the country. This loss not only impacts the financial viability of water services but also exacerbates access issues for many Kenyans. Despite the challenges, there is a silver lining: water coverage has improved from 70% to 72%, allowing an additional 1.26 million people to access piped water services.

In the same period, water production increased by nine percent, rising from 461 million cubic metres to 504 million cubic metres. This growth in production highlights the potential for improved management practices to mitigate losses and enhance service delivery. However, the persistent issue of non-revenue water raises questions about the effectiveness of current strategies in addressing leakages and theft.

The findings of the Wasreb Impact 18 Report serve as a wake-up call for stakeholders in the water sector. The increase in non-revenue water indicates systemic inefficiencies that must be tackled to ensure the sustainability of water services in Kenya. As the country strives to improve water access and quality, the focus must shift towards reducing losses and enhancing operational efficiency.

In conclusion, while there have been improvements in water coverage and production, the rise in non-revenue water presents a significant hurdle that needs urgent attention. The ongoing losses threaten the financial stability of the sector and the overall goal of providing reliable water services to all Kenyans.