Nyeri: A section of Nyeri town residents has vowed to reject a proposed increase in water tariffs by the Nyeri Water and Sewerage Company (NYEWASCO), arguing that the cost of living is already high.
According to Kenya News Agency, during a sensitization exercise at the Kamakwa shopping center ahead of a public participation event, residents expressed that the timing of the tariff review was inappropriate. They urged NYEWASCO to maintain the current tariffs until 2030, highlighting the financial strain faced by many. Lewis Mathenge, a resident, emphasized the challenge posed by high water bills amidst rising living costs, suggesting that tariffs remain unchanged for the next five years.
Another resident, Kandara Wachira, proposed reducing the tariffs and questioned the uniformity in charges for residents near the company’s plant compared to those living farther away. Wachira also raised concerns about sewerage billing for residents who primarily use pit latrines, suggesting that charges should only apply to those benefiting from the service.
The water and sewerage company plans to review water tariffs by between 0.2 percent and 50 percent. According to a schedule seen by KNA, domestic customers consuming between 1-6 units will see a 50.6 percent increase, while those using 7-20 units will face a 37 percent hike. Other customer categories will also experience varying levels of increases.
John Maathai, a representative from NYEWASCO’s Commercial Services Directorate, defended the tariff review, citing legal requirements for rate updates by the Water Services Regulatory Board (WASREB) every five years. He explained that the company faces funding challenges, including decreased donor support, new government levies, increased operational costs, and delayed payments from national government institutions.
Maathai highlighted significant cost increases in water pumping, sample analysis, water abstraction, and pipe purchases, arguing that these necessitate a tariff hike. He also noted that the proposed tariffs were suggested by WASREB.
NYEWASCO aims to use the anticipated revenue increase to support operational costs and undertake crucial projects to enhance service delivery. The company projects to raise Sh 514 million over the next five years to improve critical infrastructure, keeping pace with a growing clientele base.
Currently, NYEWASCO serves 44,131 customers, a significant increase from 571 customers in 1997. The company’s revenue has grown over the years, with expectations to generate Sh 685 million this year. NYEWASCO also provides sewerage services to 14,925 clients, up from 294 in 1997. Key projects planned include the Kabiruini-Chaka Water project, Kiamwathi Sewerage project, and Mweiga Sewerage Project.
