Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has called for collaboration on shared water resources management by counties in the Lake Region Economic Bloc.
Lusaka said increased cooperation will result in innovative financing solutions, including county bonds and public-private partnerships.
This will boost investment in water infrastructure and increase coverage.
He acknowledged USAID’s support for development of water infrastructure and called upon stakeholders to leverage existing research networks to develop sustainable solutions.
To achieve its vision on water safety, the bloc will explore partnerships supported by the legal framework to allow for cooperation between counties and the national government.
Enhanced collaboration will address challenges such as deforestation, pollution and unsustainable land use that are threatening the future, the governor added.
Lusaka, who is LREB’s vice chairman, made the remarks when he opened the region’s inaugural Partnerships for Water Security Conference at Ciala Resort.
The conference runs until November 7.
It brings together governors, water sector partners, and local leaders to strategise on water conservation and improved service delivery within the bloc.
There is urgent need for sustain able water management across counties, underscoring the bloc’s mission to create a water-secure environment that supports the 17 million residents in the Lake region.
Only 53 per cent of the population in the 14 counties that make up the bloc has access to water services.
The governor said rural areas are significantly underserved with less than 30 per cent enjoying proper sanitation.
More efforts are required to ensure effective management of water supply systems and reduce non-revenue water, which currently stands at 48 per cent of the total water generated by counties.
While the demand for water services is growing, financing for the necessary projects often falls short, the governor said.
To close this gap, stakeholders must be creative and find ways to mobilise resources.
Lusaka said the bloc is committed to ensuring water security as an essential
for environmental stewardship
and regional prosperity.
