Kenyan water utilities earn global recognition for climate action
Kenyan water utilities have strengthened the country’s profile in sustainable water management after Nakuru Water and Sanitation Services Company (NAWASSCO) and Eldoret Water and Sanitation Company (ELDOWAS) received international recognition during the 2026 International Water Association (IWA) World Water Congress and Exhibition in Glasgow, Scotland.
NAWASSCO was recognised as an Outstanding Climate Smart Utility, while ELDOWAS earned recognition in the Achiever Category of the 2026 IWA Climate Smart Utilities Recognition Programme, powered by Xylem. The achievements highlight the growing efforts by Kenyan water service providers to strengthen climate resilience and promote sustainable water and sanitation services.
NAWASSCO’s recognition followed an assessment involving 152 utilities from 52 countries, with only seven selected for the Outstanding category following evaluation by an independent expert jury. The utility’s achievement places it among a select group of international water providers, including PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency, United Utilities and SMAT Torino.
The Water and Sanitation Providers Association (WASPA) congratulated NAWASSCO, describing the recognition as a proud moment for Nakuru and Kenya’s wider water sector.
Meanwhile, ELDOWAS used the international congress to exchange knowledge and explore partnerships aimed at addressing challenges affecting water service delivery. Its delegation, led by Managing Director Dr. Lawrence Tanui, alongside Eng. Dennis Borus and Susanne Sang, participated in discussions on water security, climate resilience, innovative technologies, operational efficiency, nature-based solutions and sustainable financing.
The company’s recognition in the Achiever Category also highlighted its ongoing work in Eldoret, including initiatives under the Eldoret-Iten Water Fund (EIWF), which supports catchment conservation and long-term water security.
ELDOWAS noted that the congress provided an opportunity to explore practical approaches to reducing non-revenue water, protecting water resources, improving infrastructure resilience and securing sustainable financing for water projects.
The company acknowledged the continued support of The Nature Conservancy and Water Funds for Africa in advancing catchment conservation. It also appreciated Nancy Lilly for attending its sessions and engaging with the delegation.
Both utilities’ achievements underscore the importance of innovation, collaboration and sustainable investment in preparing water systems for climate-related challenges. As Kenya’s water providers continue to face growing demand and environmental pressures, international partnerships and knowledge exchange remain essential to improving service delivery.
The utilities are expected to build on the lessons and relationships established in Glasgow to strengthen local initiatives, protect water sources and advance climate-resilient water and sanitation services.
The recognition demonstrates that Kenyan water utilities are increasingly contributing to global discussions on climate action while pursuing practical solutions to improve water security and sustainability at home
