Governor Lusaka advocates for innovative water projects financing solutions

By Peter Ochieng

Lake Region Economic Block (LREB) Vice Chairman, Kenneth Lusaka has called for sustainable water management across the 14 counties, which form the block.

Speaking during the opening of the inaugural LREB Partnership for Water Security Conference in Kisumu on Wednesday, the Bungoma governor emphasised the bloc's mission to create a water-secure environment that supports the 17 million residents in the region.

He noted that only 53% of the population has access to clean water services, with rural areas significantly underserved.

“I call for increased collaboration between counties to address shared water resources. Similarly, I advocate for innovative financing solutions, including county bonds and public-private partnerships, to boost investment in water infrastructure,” he said.

Acknowledging USAID's support, Lusaka called on stakeholders to leverage existing research networks to develop sustainable solutions.

He reaffirmed LREB’s commitment to water security as an essential tool for environmental stewardship and regional prosperity.

Kisumu Deputy governor Mathew Ochieng Owili on his part said they are committed to addressing issues related to water sustainability.

“As a government we are committed to address the sustainability issues by improving pipeline extension services in collaboration with our development partners.”

According to organisers, the aim is to foster dialogues and collaboration among diverse stakeholders in addressing the pressing issues of water scarcity, pollution, and inefficient service delivery that affect millions in the region.

The event, organisers say, is a response to the region’s need to accelerate water resource management within the bloc, which if not mitigated in a structured sustainable approach, poses great havoc to human life and livelihoods.

The theme is “Accelerating Partnership and Collaboration on Water as a Shared Resource for Sustained Service Delivery in the Lake Region Economic Bloc.”

LREB region comprises 14 counties; Busia, Trans Nzoia, Bungoma, Kakamega, Vihiga, Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Bomet, Kericho, Nandi.