Kenyan water utilities earn global recognition for climate action

Kenya’s efforts to strengthen climate resilience and promote sustainable water and sanitation services have received international recognition, with five Water Service Providers (WSPs) honoured under the 2026 International Water Association (IWA) Climate Smart Utilities Recognition Programme.

The recognition was announced during the IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland, which brought together water professionals, utilities and industry leaders from around the world to share knowledge and explore solutions to emerging water challenges.

The programme recognises utilities that are taking practical steps to address climate change while ensuring reliable and sustainable water and sanitation services. It also provides a platform for sharing successful approaches that can inspire other service providers to strengthen their climate action initiatives.

The initiative focuses on three key areas: climate adaptation, climate mitigation and leadership. These pillars encourage utilities to prepare infrastructure for climate-related risks such as droughts and floods, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve resource efficiency and promote partnerships that advance environmental sustainability.

The programme has two recognition categories. The Entrant Category acknowledges utilities beginning their climate-smart journey, while the Achiever Category recognises providers that have made significant progress in implementing and expanding climate solutions.

Nakuru Water and Sanitation Services Company (NAWASSCO) received Outstanding recognition in the Entrant Category, distinguishing itself among utilities participating in the programme. The company has emphasised the importance of identifying climate risks and incorporating practical adaptation and mitigation measures into its operations to safeguard water and sanitation infrastructure against changing environmental conditions.

NAWASSCO’s recognition followed a competitive programme involving 152 utilities from 52 countries, with only seven receiving Outstanding recognition.

Murang’a Water and Sanitation Company Limited (MUWASCO) was also recognised in the Entrant Category for its environmental conservation efforts through the MUWASCO Linda Mazingira Programme. The initiative promotes seedling propagation, tree planting and the nurturing of young trees to ensure their survival, contributing to catchment protection and the long-term sustainability of water resources.

Eldoret Water and Sanitation Company earned recognition in the Achiever Category for its progress in climate adaptation, mitigation and leadership. Its initiatives include sustainable water resource management and catchment conservation through the Eldoret-Iten Water Fund (EIWF), which supports efforts to protect water sources and strengthen the resilience of the ecosystems on which water supply depends.

Kakamega County Water and Sanitation Company (KACWASCO) was similarly recognised in the Achiever Category for integrating climate resilience, operational efficiency and digital innovation into its service delivery.

The company’s approach includes investments in sustainable water supply, the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and digital water management technologies, and improved monitoring of water production, consumption and distribution. These measures support data-driven decision-making, enhance operational oversight and contribute to more sustainable service provision.

Wajir Water was recognised in the Entrant Category, further demonstrating the participation of Kenyan utilities in international efforts to promote climate-smart water and sanitation services.

Beyond the international recognition, the Water Services Providers Association of Kenya (WASPA) continues to support climate resilience initiatives through partnerships with organisations such as Equity Bank.

These efforts include distributing tree seedlings to water service providers for catchment conservation and supplying fruit tree seedlings to schools to encourage environmental stewardship among learners and communities.

Through tree planting, water source protection, technological innovation and collaborative initiatives, Kenya’s water utilities are contributing to the protection of critical water resources while strengthening their capacity to respond to climate change.

The recognition highlights the importance of sustained investment, partnerships and environmental conservation in ensuring that water and sanitation services remain reliable, efficient and resilient for present and future generations.