This archive report was first published on 6 July 2021.
Malindi Water and Sewerage Company (MAWASCO) has been grappling with water loss for years, with up to 25% of its water going unaccounted for due to leakages and illegal connections.
However, with the introduction of modern technology, the company is optimistic that it will start making profits as all water will soon be accounted for, illegal connections stopped, and water meter theft curtailed.
The new system, which is already operational in Watamu township, enables customers to pay for water before consuming it through a mobile technology developed by French Company City Taps.
French Ambassador to Kenya Aline Kuster-Menager officially launched the project on Monday, saying the new system would enable MAWASCO to detect leakages and improve efficiency in its services.
"For the company, it is a win-win situation where it can also get back its money and also detect leakages and improve the efficiency of the system, and for the citizen it is also a win-win situation because they can follow on their consumption and improve day to day management of water," the envoy said.
The pilot project, which has already installed 600 automated water meters, is made possible through a grant of Sh53 million from the French Government in partnership with the County Government of Kilifi.
MAWASCO Managing Director Gerald Mwambire said the company had sensitized both staff and customers, and the project no longer faces resistance.
He noted that meter theft would reduce since the new meters are installed inside houses where thieves cannot easily access.
Walter Sirya, a landlord in Watamu, said the new technology will greatly help him since his tenants will be able to manage themselves in terms of water use.
By Emmanuel Masha
