By Njeri Irungu,
Nairobi, Wednesday, December 10, 2025
The Water Resources Authority (WRA) has sounded the alarm over a worrying rise in illegal water abstraction and widespread breaches of the Water Act 2016 and the newly enacted Water Resources Regulations 2025.
In a st
atement issued on Wednesday, the Authority said it has observed “an increasing trend of non-compliance,” with more water users bypassing or ignoring the mandatory permitting system designed to ensure equitable and sustainable allocation of the country’s water resources.
WRA, which is mandated under Section 12 of the Water Act to regulate and safeguard Kenya’s water resources, emphasized that the water use permit remains central to promoting transparency, accountability, and fairness in water allocation. However, in recent months, officials have reported a spike in illegal abstraction and failure by both individuals and institutions to obtain or comply with permit conditions.
Of growing concern, WRA noted, is the emerging role of political interference. The Authority cited a recent incident in Kieni, Nyeri County, where political actors allegedly incited community members to defy WRA directives — a move the Authority says undermines lawful water management and fuels misinformation. WRA further dismissed claims that its officers vandalize water equipment, terming the allegations “untrue and misleading.”
The Authority also warned that leadership within private entities found to have violated the law would be held liable and prosecuted. For government institutions, WRA stated that top officials — including managing directors — will face enforcement action where breaches of water regulations occur.
“The law is clear: any form of non-compliance with the Water Act and its Regulations is an offence and will attract enforcement action,” the statement read. WRA cautioned that such violations threaten the sustainability of water resources and compromise equitable access, ultimately harming communities, ecosystems, and future users.
Despite the rising concerns, the Authority announced a temporary suspension of mass disconnections related to unpaid water use fees. The pause, effective December 10, aims to give water users relief during the festive season, with enforcement expected to resume on January 15, 2026.
WRA is now urging all abstractors to regularize their status — including obtaining valid permits, renewing expired ones, or visiting the nearest WRA office for guidance. The Authority emphasized that all official communication is made directly to permit holders and encouraged the public to ignore misinformation.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting Kenya’s water resources, WRA called on abstractors, community leaders, and all stakeholders to adhere to the law and support responsible water management efforts.
For further information, the Authority directed inquiries to its headquarters at SHA Building on Ngong Road, Nairobi.
