WRA strengthens ties with farmers on water rules

The Water Resources Authority (WRA) is seeking stronger collaboration with agricultural sector employers to improve compliance with water regulations and promote sustainable use of the country’s water resources.

The authority held a consultative meeting on Thursday, October 29, 2026, with the Agriculture Employers’ Association to explore areas of cooperation and improve understanding of the Water Resources Regulations, 2025.

The meeting was led by WRA Acting Chief Executive Officer CPA James Mburu, while the visiting delegation was headed by Agriculture Employers’ Association Board Director Janey Leakey.

The discussions focused on strengthening partnerships between the water regulator and the agricultural sector, particularly in promoting compliance with the new regulations and encouraging responsible water use.

Agriculture relies heavily on water for irrigation, livestock production and other farming activities, making effective water-resource management important for sustaining agricultural productivity while protecting rivers, groundwater and other sources from overuse.

Closer engagement between regulators and agricultural employers can help businesses understand their obligations, improve compliance and identify practical ways to use water more efficiently. It can also provide an opportunity to address challenges faced by water users as regulatory requirements are implemented.

The Water Resources Authority is responsible for regulating the use and management of water resources in Kenya. Its work includes overseeing water abstraction, protecting water sources and promoting sustainable use to ensure that resources remain available for different users and future generations.

The Water Resources Regulations, 2025, provide a framework for managing water-resource activities and guiding compliance by water users. Understanding the applicable requirements is particularly important for agricultural enterprises that depend on reliable supplies for their operations.

Through consultations with industry associations, the authority can engage directly with water users, communicate regulatory expectations and encourage cooperation in protecting water resources.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of partnerships in addressing competing demands for water as agriculture, households, industries and ecosystems depend on the same limited resource.

For agricultural employers, responsible water management is essential not only for meeting regulatory requirements but also for maintaining reliable supplies, supporting production and reducing pressure on water sources.

The authority reaffirmed its commitment to working with the agricultural sector to strengthen compliance and advance sustainable water-resource management across the country.

The engagement forms part of broader efforts to bring regulators and water users together in protecting Kenya’s water resources while supporting economic activities that depend on them.