Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has called for fresh dialogue with residents of Eldoret following public outcry over plans to increase water tariffs by 300 per cent.
The governor directed the Eldoret Water and Sanitation Company (Eldowas), which is owned by the county, to engage residents in discussions to address concerns about the proposed charges.
“The matter has been brought to my attention and I find it necessary that all stakeholders engage constructively to address the issues raised and work toward a fair and lasting solution,” Bii said.
He assured residents that his administration remains committed to providing clean and affordable water, while also pledging to expand water infrastructure to meet the growing demand in the region.
In a statement, the governor added: “I have directed Eldowas to engage the residents and report on the resolutions and way forward within the next 21 days.”
The debate over the new tariffs began after consumers filed a petition through representatives Kipkorir Menjo and David Chebet, challenging the increases in court.
However, Justice Emmanuel Washe of the Environment and Lands Court ruled last week that the court lacked jurisdiction to hear the matter, saying it fell under the Water Act.
The judge also lifted suspension orders issued on March 25, 2024, that had temporarily stopped implementation of the tariffs.
Following the ruling, Eldowas announced that it would proceed with the new rates as contained in Gazette Notice No. 12825 dated October 4, 2024.
Eldowas Chief Executive Officer Lawrence Tanui said the company would implement the tariffs in line with guidelines from the Water Services Regulatory Board (Wasreb) and customer notification procedures.
“We will proceed with the implementation in line with Wasreb’s guidelines. At the same time, we remain focused on improving service delivery, expanding access and ensuring the sustainability of our operations,” Tanui said.
The company assured customers that billing adjustments would follow the approved tariff structure and that the process would be transparent.
Meanwhile, residents have vowed to appeal the decision. The 64 Residents Association, represented by lawyer Khaira Nabasenge, has also opposed the increment.
Local leaders, including Abubakar Bini, chairperson of Muslim Imams and Preachers, called on President William Ruto to intervene, arguing that the increases were too high and had not been subjected to adequate public participation.
“The cost of water must be reasonable, and public input should be respected,” Bini said.
The proposed tariffs, which were initially effected in October 2024 before being suspended, had previously sparked protests in Eldoret.
Residents now want the increases set aside to allow for broader consultation before any adjustments are implemented.
“We believe the court erred and we will seek redress in the Court of Appeal,” Menjo said.
