The Water Services Regulatory Board (WASREB) has issued a public notice requiring all small-scale water service providers in Kenya to register their operations.
WASREB said the move aims to ensure compliance with the Water Act 2016 and improve the quality and safety of water services across the country.
According to WASREB, a person shall not provide water services unless under the authority of a license issued by the regulatory board.
WASREB said the requirement applies to various categories of operators who have not previously registered including community water projects.
It also applies to gated community water providers and housing development company water projects, private or individual water operators and public benefit or non-governmental organization (PBO/NGO) water projects.
The registration exercise will close on April 28, 2025, and there will be no cost for registration.
WASREB was established under the Water Act 2002 and continues to operate under the Water Act 2016.
Its main role is to ensure that water services are provided in a sustainable, efficient and affordable manner while safeguarding consumer interests.
One of its key functions is regulating and licensing Water Service Providers (WSPs) across the country.
WASREB grants licenses and ensures that WSPs comply with established regulations to maintain service quality.
In addition, it sets service standards by developing guidelines and benchmarks that ensure the reliability and efficiency of water supply and sanitation services.
Another critical role of WASREB is approving water tariffs.
It reviews tariff proposals from WSPs to ensure that pricing remains affordable for consumers while allowing service providers to maintain financial stability.
The board also monitors and enforces compliance by conducting audits and assessments of water service providers to ensure they adhere to operational and legal requirements.
