The Eldoret Water and Sanitation Company (ELDOWAS) has
effected new water tariffs in the city, which have been increased by over 300
per cent, sparking an uproar from residents.
Eldowas has released its latest water bills, which reflect the increased tariffs despite earlier protests by consumers urging the company not to increase the cost.
The company is now charging averagely a tripled rate of Sh130 per cubic metre of water.
Some residents, including the business community, have threatened to carry out protests and go back to court if the water firm does not withdraw the new tariffs.
Eldowas had earlier agreed to dialogue with residents of the city over the water tariffs.
Top officials of the water firm, led by CEO Lawrence Tanu met with individuals and groups representing water consumers in Eldoret to start negotiations on review of the increased rates that have sparked protests from residents.
“We have a mandate to implement the tariffs, but we are ready to dialogue with consumers to reach an amicable solution,” Tanui said.
He said they are ready to review the tariffs through dialogue with residents.
This comes after Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii also yielded to pressure from residents of Eldoret who are threatening to carry out street protests over the new tariffs.
Bii had directed Eldowas, which is owned by the county, to engage residents to resolve the row.
The governor said residents had raised concerns after the new tariffs were set, stirring public debate.
“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 pledged to continue to emphasise on provision of clean, affordable water and sanitation services to the residents as indicated in his blueprint.
In addition, he said he would facilitate the expansion of water infrastructure to increase the water volumes commensurate with the ever-growing population in the region.
“I direct that all parties meet urgently, discuss and submit a report on the resolutions and way forward within the next 21 days,” Bii said in a statement.
Three weeks ago, the High Court lifted a suspension on a decision to increase the tariffs.
The water consumers in the city have already instructed lawyers to appeal against the court ruling, even as they pleaded with President William Ruto to intervene and ensure the water tariffs are not increased abnormally.
Abubakar Bini, who is chairman of Muslim Imams and Preachers in the region, said residents would have no other option than to take to the streets if the increase is not reversed.
“Let President Ruto intervene to ensure we get water at reasonable tariffs or we will go to the streets to fight for wate,r which is a precious commodity,” he said.
Bini and another resident Kipkorir Menjo led residents during a meeting where they resolved to fight against the increment.
“We will file the appeal but also use all other means possible to stop those who think they will mess up with our right to access water in Eldoret,” Menjo said.
The consumers had lost a case opposing the new tariffs after Justice Emmanuel Washe of the Environment and Lands Court ruled that the court had no jurisdiction to handle the case.
The residents had filed a petition at the court through Kipkorir Menjo and David Chebet who sued Eldoret Water and Sanitation Company and the Water Service Regulatory Board.
However, the petition was struck out for being in contravention of the Water Act, as the court lacked jurisdiction to hear and determine it.
Justice Washe also discharged suspension orders issued on March 25, 2025 stopping implementation of the new tariffs.
