ELDOWAS Cuts water losses to 5% through new technology
Eldoret Water and Sanitation Company (ELDOWAS) has significantly reduced water losses in one of its distribution zones, demonstrating how modern technology and effective utility management can improve water supply efficiency.
The achievement was highlighted during a review visit involving Population Services International (PSI), global water technology company Xylem and ELDOWAS under the Kenyan Water Utilities Strengthening Project. The team assessed progress in improving water distribution and strengthening the capacity of water service providers to deliver reliable services to communities.
During the visit, the partners observed how the installation of pressure-reducing valves, supported by the efforts of ELDOWAS staff, helped lower water losses in one District Metered Area from 50 per cent to just five per cent.
The improvement provides a practical example of how water utilities can reduce wastage by combining appropriate technology with skilled personnel and better management of distribution networks. The partners are looking at the experience as a model that could be replicated by other utilities seeking to improve operational efficiency.
Pressure-reducing valves help control excessive pressure in water pipelines, reducing stress on pipes and fittings and lowering the risk of leaks and bursts. When properly installed and maintained, these devices can help utilities protect their infrastructure, conserve treated water and improve the reliability of supply.
The intervention comes as water service providers face the challenge of ensuring that more of the water they produce reaches consumers. Water losses can reduce the amount available for household use, businesses and institutions while increasing the costs associated with treatment, pumping and distribution.
ELDOWAS has prioritised water conservation and reducing non-revenue water as part of its operational strategy. Non-revenue water refers to water that is produced but does not generate revenue for the utility, including losses through leaking pipes and water that is supplied but not properly measured or billed. Reducing these losses can help utilities make better use of existing supplies and improve their financial sustainability.
Improving distribution efficiency is particularly important in Eldoret, where demand for water has placed pressure on available supply. Cutting losses allows the company to maximise the amount of treated water reaching consumers, although further investments may still be needed to close the gap between supply and demand.
The Kenyan Water Utilities Strengthening Project highlights the importance of collaboration between technology providers, development partners and local water companies. While equipment can help address technical problems, sustained results also depend on regular maintenance, accurate monitoring, staff training and timely repairs.
Beyond operational savings, improved water delivery can support public health by helping households, schools, healthcare facilities and businesses obtain more dependable supplies for drinking, hygiene and sanitation.
The progress recorded in Eldoret demonstrates how targeted investment in water infrastructure and stronger utility management can contribute to wider water security goals. Applying similar approaches in other distribution networks could help water providers reduce avoidable losses, strengthen service delivery and make more efficient use of limited water resources.
