Shifting focus to household/community water projects from large dams
The Kenya Kwanza government promised to shift focus from large dams to household/community water projects, with emphasis on harvesting and recycling.
Progress includes the initiation and completion of numerous borehole, water pan, and small-dam projects across various counties, often implemented in partnership with county governments. This approach emphasizes water harvesting and local infrastructure development to increase household access to water and support small-scale irrigation.
The Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, also launched its strategic plan for the years 2023-2027 as a base upon which the Ministry will accomplish its broad mandate including but not limited to Water Harvesting. The Strategic plan, however, highlights that the country lacks adequate water harvesting and storge infrastructure. It also aims to promote Water and sewerage development, expansion access and coverage through treated wastewater reuse, recycling and other value-addition initiatives within the ASAL.
From of February 2026, the Subuiga communities is also benefiting from reliable access to water following the completion of the Subuiga Dam Community Water Project spearheaded by Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in partnership with Kisima Farm and the Ngarenythig Water Resources Users Association (WRUA) to reduce water scarcity.