Water is an essential resource, and its management plays a critical role in Kenya’s social and economic development. Water Works Development Agencies (WWDAs) were established under the Water Act of 2016, replacing Water Service Boards (WSBs). These agencies are mandated to oversee the development and maintenance of sustainable water and sanitation infrastructure, ensuring that all regions of Kenya have access to clean and reliable water resources.
This article explores the functions of WWDAs, provides a detailed list of these agencies, their areas of jurisdiction, and how to contact them, alongside additional insights into their significance for Kenya’s development.
Functions of Water Works Development Agencies in Kenya
WWDAs are responsible for managing water and sanitation resources at the regional level. Their roles include:
- Development and Maintenance of Water Infrastructure
- WWDAs undertake the development, management, and maintenance of public waterworks within their jurisdiction.
- Operational Management of Water Services
- These agencies operate waterworks and provide water services until such responsibilities are handed over to county governments or authorized water service providers.
- Reserve Capacity for Water Services
- They ensure there is sufficient reserve capacity to meet water demand in their jurisdictions.
- Technical Support to Counties and Water Providers
- WWDAs provide technical services and capacity-building programs to county governments and water service providers.
- Advisory Role to the Ministry
- They offer technical support and advice to the Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation.
List of Water Works Development Agencies in Kenya
1. Tana Water Works Development Agency (TWWDA)
- Jurisdiction: Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka Nithi counties.
- Area Coverage: 17,189.7 km² with a population of 3,917,065.
- Contact Information:
- Head Office: Maji House, Baden Powell Road, Nyeri.
- Phone: +254 724 259 891, +254 61-2032282.
- Email: info@tanawwda.go.ke
2. Athi Water Works Development Agency (AWWDA)
- Jurisdiction: Nairobi City, Kiambu, and Murang’a counties.
- Contact Information:
- Head Office: Athi Water Plaza, Muthaiga North Rd., off Kiambu Road, Nairobi.
- Phone: +254 0202724292, +254 715 688 272.
- Email: info@awwda.go.ke
3. Coast Water Works Development Agency (CWWDA)
- Jurisdiction: Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Taita-Taveta, Lamu, and Tana River counties.
- Contact Information:
- Head Office: Mikindani Street, Off Nkrumah Road, Mombasa.
- Phone: 041-2315230.
- Email: info@cwwda.go.ke
4. Lake Victoria North Water Works Development Agency (LVNWWDA)
- Jurisdiction: Kakamega, Bungoma, Vihiga, Busia, Trans Nzoia, and Nandi counties.
- Contact Information:
- Head Office: Kefinco House, off Kakamega-Kisumu Road, Kakamega.
- Phone: +254 562031552, 020 7608130.
- Email: info@lvnwwda.go.ke
5. Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency (LVSWWDA)
- Jurisdiction: Bomet, Homa Bay, Kericho, Kisii, Kisumu, Migori, Nyamira, and Siaya counties.
- Contact Information:
- Head Office: Lavictors House, Off Ring Road, Milimani, Kisumu.
- Phone: 057 2025128.
- Email: info@lvswwda.go.ke
6. Northern Water Works Development Agency (NWWDA)
- Jurisdiction: Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Isiolo, Samburu, and Marsabit counties.
- Contact Information:
- Head Office: Maji House, Kismayu Road, Garissa.
- Phone: +254 711 559995, +254 46 2103598.
- Email: info@nwwda.go.ke
7. North Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency (NRVWWDA)
- Jurisdiction: Uasin Gishu, West Pokot, Turkana, and Elgeyo-Marakwet counties.
- Contact Information:
- Head Office: OAG Building (2nd Floor), Furfural Road, Eldoret.
- Phone: 0700 347 896, 0753 347 896.
- Email: info@nrvwwda.go.ke
8. Tanathi Water Works Development Agency (TAWWDA)
- Jurisdiction: Kitui, Makueni, Machakos, and Kajiado counties.
- Contact Information:
- Head Office: K.I.D.P Building, Kalawa Road, Kitui.
- Phone: 044 4422416, 0712351104.
- Email: info@tanathi.go.ke
9. Central Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency (CRVWWDA)
- Jurisdiction: Nakuru, Narok, Laikipia, Baringo, and Nyandarua counties.
- Contact Information:
- Head Office: Maji Plaza, Prisons Road, Nakuru.
- Phone: +254 725 999 000.
- Email: info@crvwwda.go.ke
The Role of WWDAs in Kenya’s Development
Water Works Development Agencies play an indispensable role in ensuring equitable access to water resources. Their contributions extend to economic growth, improved sanitation, and the reduction of waterborne diseases in their regions.
Key Impact Areas:
- Economic Growth: Reliable water infrastructure supports agriculture, manufacturing, and other industries.
- Health Improvements: Enhanced access to clean water reduces disease outbreaks, particularly in underserved areas.
- Environmental Sustainability: Agencies ensure sustainable water use, mitigating resource depletion.
- Capacity Building: By training county governments and water service providers, WWDAs foster long-term self-reliance in water management.
Kenya’s Water Works Development Agencies are vital pillars in addressing water and sanitation challenges, particularly as population growth increases the demand for these resources. Through their targeted efforts, they ensure equitable distribution, technical support, and sustainable development of water infrastructure across the nation.
