Kisumu County is scaling up efforts to tackle water scarcity, with Kenya’s per capita water availability standing at 405 cubic metres, well below the global standard of 1,000. The figure is projected to drop further by 2050, piling pressure on already strained resources.

Despite this, the county has expanded water infrastructure from 76 percent to 81.5 percent in three years. Coverage has also risen from 41.4 percent to 47.4 percent, with a target of 51.5 percent by 2027, though rural areas still lag behind.

Speaking during World Water Day celebrations in Sondu, the Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili said the county is leveraging the crisis to drive investment and reform in the sector.

“Water scarcity is a challenge, but it is also pushing us to innovate, expand infrastructure and ensure no community is left behind,” he said.

He added that the county is prioritizing last-mile connectivity, finalizing water policies and preparing to roll out a Rural Water Company to improve access and management.

The Sondu Maji Safi Water Project, commissioned during the event, is already making a difference. Residents say it has eased daily struggles and improved livelihoods.

“We used to walk long distances to fetch water, but now it is closer and reliable. I have more time for my business and my children,” said one resident.

Another community member noted improved health and sanitation. “Clean water has reduced illnesses in our homes. Life is now easier, especially for women and children.”

The Deputy Governor emphasized the link between water access and gender equality, noting that women bear the greatest burden of scarcity.

“When we bring water closer to the people, we restore dignity, improve health and unlock opportunities, especially for women and girls,” he said.

He also called for stronger environmental conservation, urging communities to protect water sources and support tree planting initiatives.

“Water and the environment are inseparable. Protecting our ecosystems is the only way to secure our future water needs,” he said.

The county credited partners including Siemens Stiftung, SWAP and Rural Water Solutions for supporting the project, while urging continued collaboration to achieve sustainable water access.

As Kisumu pushes forward, leaders say the focus remains on inclusive, sustainable solutions that address both water scarcity and community development.