Over 52 water companies assemble in Murang'a Wasco games

Over 52 water companies have assembled in Murang'a for a five-day Water Companies Sports Organisation (Wasco) sports extravaganza.

The 13th edition of the games was opened by Governor Irungu Kang'ata and Water Cabinet Secretary Eric Muriithi at Mumbi grounds.

Participants planted about 10,000 tree seedlings at Mbiri Primary School in line with the event's theme of mitigating climate change.

The games will feature darts, football, table tennis, chess, scrabble and volleyball with the best performers walking away with trophies.

The CS said sports not only provide an opportunity for players to unwind but also integrate and promote cohesion.

"Sports bring people together and foster a spirit of comradeship," the CS said.

Muriithi said an energised and healthy workforce boosts productivity and enhances the delivery of services.

He praised water companies for playing a major role in boosting water connections in the country.

The ministry will continue to support WASCO games to ensure workers remain motivated.

"Use this opportunity not only to compete in sports but also make an impact in fighting climate change, which has continued to affect water utilities," he added.

The ministry has planted over one million seedlings and Muriithi has urged water companies to scale up the planting.

Kang'ata urged participants to sample the numerous sites in the county.

He said the county has an array of hospitality and cultural heritage facilities combined with breathtaking scenery.

Moses Kinya of the Water and Sanitation Providers Association (WASPA) said the games help promote health and unity among workers.

"Sports play a crucial role in addressing issues of climate change. We are at the forefront of the fight against climate change,” said Kinya.

“Let us take this opportunity to interact, build lasting connections and strengthen the bonds... which are crucial to the success of our organisations." 

He urged water companies to partner in reducing non-revenue water which has remained a major issue for most.

Murang’a Water and Sanitation Company (Muwasco) managing director Daniel Ng’ang’a said all water firms' managing directors support the sports organisers to make the event successful.

Ng'ang'a urged the Wasco organising committee to consider partnering with established sports teams in the country and even internationally to expose players' talents.

"These sports don't focus too much on the winnings but on bringing water companies' workers together and enhancing cohesion," he said.