Residents across Pwani region continue to face prolonged water shortages, with many relying on unsafe sources despite government promises of long-term solutions. The crisis has persisted for decades without effective resolution, according to local officials and community reports.
In Mombasa County, access to clean water remains limited as neighboring counties' supplies are insufficient to meet growing demand. Water distribution systems frequently malfunction, forcing residents to purchase water from private vendors or collect from unregulated sources like boreholes and informal suppliers.
A county government initiative to establish a coastal water treatment plant has been delayed for over two years. The project, initially approved during President Uhuru Kenyatta's tenure with a Sh16 billion allocation, remains under review by the Ministry of Finance. Officials acknowledge internal bureaucratic challenges are hindering implementation.
"This project was approved through internal guidelines. It's currently under Ministry of Finance review, and we'll provide recommendations on the next steps," said Water Minister Bi Sicily Kariuki in a recent statement.
Mombasa County Finance Minister Bi Mariam Mbaruk emphasized the need for urgent action before the upcoming gubernatorial term ends. Similar water access issues affect Kilifi County's Magarini, Ganze, and Kaloleni regions, where residents have organized community contributions to fund local water solutions.
Residents in Magarini reported traveling up to 15 kilometers to access clean water. "Many families struggle to afford basic water needs, let alone medical expenses for waterborne illnesses," said Bi Selina Maitha from Kakuhani village. Local leaders note the crisis has strained household budgets and increased health risks.
Kilifi County Water Officer Bw Kiringi Mwachitu acknowledged the urgency of the situation, while some residents accuse water distribution companies of exacerbating shortages to benefit private suppliers. "We've been requesting water for months, but now we're being charged for contaminated sources," said resident Bw Jimmy Tomboko from Kaloleni.
The Ministry of Water has initiated new pipeline projects in Kwale and Lamu counties, aiming to expand distribution networks. However, residents in Lamu report ongoing issues with water quality, linking contamination to nearby industrial activities.
"The water we receive is undrinkable. We use it without treatment, leading to more health problems," said Bi Fatma Gobu from Kiangwe village. Similar concerns persist in Tana River, Taita Taveta, and Kwale counties, highlighting the regional scale of the crisis.
Meanwhile, Gavana Kiraitu launched the 2022 campaign for county elections, signaling renewed political focus on infrastructure development. The initiative coincides with growing public pressure for accountability in water management and service delivery.
