Mombasa Governor Hosts Water CS to Discuss Bulk Water Solutions, Mwache Dam Progress

MOMBASA — Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir held consultations with Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, Eng. Eric Muga, on Tuesday as part of stakeholder engagements aimed at improving bulk water supply infrastructure for the coastal city.

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The meeting, held in Mombasa, focused on collaborative strategies between the county and national governments to address persistent water challenges facing the region’s growing population.

Non-Revenue Water Campaign Shows Results

Governor Nassir highlighted progress made during the county’s 100-day sprint to combat non-revenue water, a critical issue that has long plagued Mombasa’s water distribution system. Non-revenue water refers to water that is produced but lost before reaching consumers, typically through leaks, theft, or illegal connections.

“Our 100-day sprint on this front has seen significant progress — illegal connections cut, cases prosecuted, and efficiency restored across key zones,” the Governor stated following the engagement with CS Muga.

The campaign has resulted in the disconnection of illegal water connections, successful prosecution of offenders, and improved operational efficiency in several water distribution zones across the county.

National-County Collaboration

Governor Nassir emphasized the importance of continued partnership with the national government to supplement county efforts in water management and infrastructure development.

“We will continue to work closely with the national government as they supplement our ongoing efforts to combat non-revenue water,” he said.

CS Muga’s visit to Mombasa is part of a broader stakeholder consultation process aimed at developing sustainable bulk water solutions for the region, which has experienced rapid urbanization and increased demand for reliable water supply.

Mwache Dam Expected to Transform Water Supply

Looking ahead, Governor Nassir expressed optimism about the completion of the Mwache Dam project, describing it as “a game-changer for Mombasa.”

Once operational, the dam is expected to supply water through three direct lines serving Likoni, Changamwe, and Nguu Tatu areas, significantly boosting water availability in these densely populated zones.

The Mwache Dam, located in Kwale County approximately 42 kilometers from Mombasa, is one of the flagship infrastructure projects under the national government’s water security agenda. The multipurpose dam is designed to provide water for domestic, industrial, and irrigation purposes, with Mombasa being a primary beneficiary.

The project is expected to ease the water shortage that has affected Mombasa residents for decades, particularly during dry seasons when rationing becomes commonplace.

Addressing Water Security Challenges

Mombasa has long grappled with water scarcity issues despite its coastal location, with the population’s water needs far exceeding current supply capacity. The combination of aging infrastructure, high non-revenue water losses, and increasing demand has made water security a priority for both county and national governments.

The ongoing interventions, including the crackdown on illegal connections and the anticipated completion of the Mwache Dam, represent a multi-pronged approach to ensuring sustainable water supply for the port city.

Further details on timelines for the Mwache Dam completion and specific targets for the non-revenue water reduction campaign are expected to be announced following the conclusion of stakeholder consultations.

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