A series of training and induction workshops kicked off on 14 May 2019 as part of the concluding process of the second phase of reforms in the water and sanitation sector also known as the transition phase. This marks a culmination of the process, which began in April 2017 following the coming into force of the Water Act, 2016.
The Water Act 2016 was enacted in order to give effect to the recognition by the Constitution of Kenya (2010) of access to water as a basic human right. That Constitutional provision was itself influenced by 2010 UN Resolution 64/292 – which recognised the human right to water and sanitation, acknowledging that clean drinking water and sanitation are essential to the realisation of all human rights.
The Water Act 2016 annulled the previous Water Act, 2002. It has complied with the CoK 2010 by: recognising water as a basic human right; devolving the functions of water between national and county governments; emphasising the importance of stakeholders’ participation, accountability and integrity in decision making; stressing the importance of managing water resources for sustainability and; creating a water sector institutional framework that makes them capable of achieving their constitutional mandates.
The first workshop for senior officials of the MWS was held on 14th May 2019 at the Sarova Panafric Hotel. The opening was presided over by The Secretary Administration Amb. Kandie on behalf of the CS, Simon Chelugui. Also present was the Water Secretary, Eng. Samwel Alima. In attendance were senior MWS officials. The workshop was facilitated by Hydrophil, an international that has been implementing the assignment titled: Supporting Water Sector Reforms Communication and Staff Inductions.