The Water Sector Trust Fund (Water Fund) is a critical state corporation in Kenya under the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation. Established under the Water Act of 2016, it succeeded the Water Services Trust Fund and has a crucial role in ensuring that underserved and marginalized communities in rural and urban areas have access to clean water and proper sanitation services. The Water Fund plays a vital part in financing and promoting sustainable water management practices across Kenya.
Functions of the Water Sector Trust Fund
- Provision of Conditional and Unconditional Grants The Water Fund’s primary mandate is to provide financial assistance through conditional and unconditional grants to county governments. These grants help fund the development and management of water services, particularly in marginalized areas where access to water and sanitation is limited.
- Financing Community-Level Water Resource Management The Water Fund supports initiatives at the community level that promote the sustainable management of water resources. This includes empowering communities to manage their local water resources in a way that preserves and protects them for future generations.
- Development of Water Services in Non-Commercially Viable Rural Areas Many rural areas in Kenya are not financially viable for licensed water service providers due to the high cost of infrastructure and low population density. The Water Fund steps in to finance the development of water services in these areas, ensuring access to clean water even in remote locations.
- Improvement of Water Services in Underserved Urban Areas The Water Fund also focuses on underserved urban areas, particularly informal settlements where access to water and sanitation services is often poor. Through targeted interventions, the Fund helps improve water infrastructure, making clean water accessible to more people.
- Funding Research in Water Resources Management To promote innovation and effective management of water services, the Water Fund invests in research activities. This research covers various aspects of water resource management, water services, sewerage, and sanitation, providing valuable insights to improve service delivery across the country.
Importance of the Water Sector Trust Fund
The Water Fund plays a key role in addressing the disparities in water and sanitation access across Kenya. By targeting underserved communities, both in rural and urban areas, the Fund contributes to improved health, hygiene, and overall quality of life. Additionally, its focus on sustainability ensures that water resources are managed responsibly, securing Kenya’s water future in the face of growing population pressures and climate change.
Contact Information
For more information on the Water Sector Trust Fund:
- Head Office: 1st Floor, CIC Plaza, Mara Road, Upper Hill, Nairobi
- Phone: 020 2729017
- Email: info@waterfund.go.ke
The Water Sector Trust Fund continues to make significant strides in improving water access and management, especially for marginalized communities. Its role in fostering sustainable water use and infrastructure development is vital in supporting Kenya’s broader development goals.
