Kenya targets climate-smart water and sanitation breakthroughs at global conference

Water, Sanitation and Irrigation CS Eric Mugaa (Second right), PS Julius Korir(right), Secretary Samwel Alima (Third right) and WASPA Chairman Thomas Odongo during a presser in Nairobi. [Boniface Okendo, Standard] Kenya is stepping up efforts to transform its water and sanitation sector with a sharp focus on climate resilience, digital innovation and private investment ahead of the Kenya Water and Sanitation International Conference and Exhibition 2025. The conference, themed "Innovative Financing Models, Technology and Innovations for Sustainable Pathways to Climate-Smart Water and Sanitation Solutions," will be held from June 23 to 27 at PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort in Mombasa. It aims to tackle Kenya's pressing water and sanitation challenges through bold financing models, fresh technologies and strengthened governance. Water Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa, speaking at the Pre-Conference Breakfast Meeting in Nairobi, said the event comes at a pivotal time when the sector stands at the intersection of urgent need and transformative opportunity. "As a Ministry, we are resolutely committed to achieving Vision 2030 and Sustainable Development Goal 6. This conference is a critical platform to align our strategies and investments with this vision," said Mugaa. He added that the Ministry has advanced bold reforms under the Water Act 2016 and is pushing the National Water and Sanitation Investment and Financing Plan (NAWASIP), which aims to mobilise Sh995 billion by 2030. Mugaa emphasised that public funding alone will not bridge Kenya's water financing gap. "We are intensifying efforts to leverage Public-Private Partnerships, blended financing, green bonds and climate funds such as the Green Climate Fund," he said. "These models not only enhance efficiency but also bring in innovation, technology and risk-sharing." Highlighting the country's digital shift, Mugaa noted the adoption of smart metering, digital billing systems, leak detection and IoT-based water monitoring, all designed to improve transparency and efficiency. He also underscored the role of nature-based solutions and energy-efficient technologies in managing water resources, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Climate change remains a major threat to water security, Mugaa warned, detailing ongoing investments in small dams, boreholes, bulk water systems and sanitation projects like K-WASH, which targets rural and peri-urban areas with decentralised wastewater systems. Water Services Providers Association Chair Thomas Odongo echoed Mugaa's sentiments, warning that only 73 per cent of Kenyans have access to basic water services and just 31 per cent to safely managed sanitation. "These are not just numbers; they represent real people and real struggles. Droughts are growing longer, floods are damaging infrastructure, and if we fail to act, we risk erasing the progress we have made," noted Odongo. The pre-conference forum gathered stakeholders from national and county governments, private sector players, civil society and development partners. The agenda focused on four key pillars: innovative financing, technology and digital innovation, policy and inclusive planning and research and capacity building. The conference will also spotlight youth engagement with a dedicated session for young professionals, innovators and students who will be offered discounted registration rates. Mugaa urged stakeholders to sponsor and support youth participation, saying, "By investing in their growth and engagement, we are securing the future of our sector."

Kenya targets climate-smart water and sanitation breakthroughs at global conference

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