Lodwar – 17th June 2025 (Public Communication and Media Relations)

Turkana Urban Water and Sewerage Company (TUWASCO) Managing Director, Benedict Ekeru, has urged Lodwar Municipality residents to take simple measures to conserve water amid the ongoing shortage.

The water service provider, which operates more than 20 boreholes, is responsible for water distribution in Lodwar town and its environs. However, in recent weeks, residents have raised concerns over persistent water shortages.

To address the issue, TUWASCO management stated that it is working to streamline its governance structure to improve service delivery. In the meantime, the management is appealing to residents to play their part in conserving water.

“TUWASCO has made strides in fixing water leaks, installing more elevated tanks, expanding the piping network, and drilling additional boreholes to serve the municipality. However, as residents, let’s use water more efficiently and reduce wastage,” Ekeru said.

He emphasized that simple action such as fixing leaking taps, taking shorter showers, and watering plants and lawns wisely could assist to conserve this valuable resource.

TUWASCO is planning to re-route some main pipes that currently pass through private residences. In addition, it is seeking strategic partners to support its borehole solarisation initiative, which aims to reduce reliance on costly electricity for pumping.

The MD also raised concerns about ongoing water theft, particularly through meter bypassing, which has resulted in huge revenue losses and supply disruption.

“We are urging the residents to pay their water bills in time to avoid disconnection,” he said.

He revealed that the Department of Water Services would soon be reviewing the Water Act 2019 regulations. With the regulations in place, it would empower the county government to fine or prosecute individuals found guilty of water theft and vandalism.

“Let’s act now by conserving water to safeguard our water sources. The population is increasing every day, but the water supply remains the same,” Ekeru said.