The Chief Executive Officer of the Water Sector Trust Fund (WSTF), Mr. Willis Ombai, has informed the Senate Committee on Lands, Environment and Natural Resources that the WaterFund has signed projects valued at Ksh. 13.3 billion with various water service providers. This update was provided during discussions on the status of projects implemented by the Fund.

Mr. Ombai explained that from the 2020/2021 to 2023/2024 Financial Years, the WaterFund disbursed Ksh. 9.74 billion through investments across Counties. The funds have enhanced access to water and sanitation services for approximately 1,206,670 people.

“In addition to these direct investments, water service providers (WSPs) have also benefited from the Water Chemicals and Conditional Liquidity Support Programme (CLSG). This initiative, managed by the WaterFund in collaboration with the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, provided financial support to WSPs affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal of the CLSG programme was to offer short-term liquidity to help WSPs maintain their operations and service levels during the pandemic, contributing to Kenya's efforts to curb the virus,” Mr. Ombai explained.

He also emphasized that WaterFund has been instrumental in mobilizing resources to strengthen county capacities and improve the performance of WSPs. This support has enabled the development of Water and Sanitation Strategies, Masterplans, Policies and Sanitation Acts for various Counties.

These frameworks, Mr. Ombai added, have played a critical role in prioritizing investments in the water sector. They have strengthened governance systems, improved transparency and accountability, and promoted equitable access to water and sanitation services, particularly for marginalized, underserved and low-income urban population