Former Tembelio MCA tasked with steering Uasin Gishu’s water utility towards efficiency as the county moves to operationalize its ambitious Nguzo 7 development agenda.

The Uasin Gishu Rural Water and Sanitation Company (URWASCO) has entered a new era of governance with the election of former Tembelio MCA Pius Kigen as its Board Chair. The appointment comes at a critical juncture for the water provider, which is under increasing pressure to expand last-mile connectivity to rural households and stabilize supply in the rapidly growing peri-urban zones of Eldoret.

Steering the Ship

Kigen’s election is seen as a strategic move to bridge the gap between technical operations and political goodwill. Having served in the County Assembly, Kigen understands the legislative and budgetary hurdles that often stall infrastructure projects. In his acceptance speech, he pledged to prioritize transparency and efficiency. "Our mandate is clear," Kigen told the board. "Water is not just a commodity; it is a right. We must ensure that every shilling invested translates to a drop of water in a resident`s tap."

• The Nguzo 7 Agenda: The appointment aligns with Governor Jonathan Bii’s "Nguzo 7" manifesto, which places water and sanitation at the core of the county’s socio-economic transformation.
• Operational Focus: The new board is expected to tackle the issue of non-revenue water—water lost to leaks and theft—which currently eats into the company’s bottom line.

A Challenge of Scale

Uasin Gishu faces a dual challenge: feeding the industrial thirst of Eldoret town while ensuring the agricultural hinterlands are not left dry. URWASCO’s role is pivotal in this balancing act. The company has recently faced scrutiny over service interruptions, a narrative Kigen is keen to rewrite.

County Secretary Philip Matelong, who oversaw the transition, emphasized that the board’s success will be measured by tangible metrics. "We are done with plans; we are now in the phase of execution," Matelong asserted. With Kigen at the helm, the county hopes to see a water utility that is as dynamic as the population it serves. The coming months will determine if this political veteran can navigate the turbulent waters of corporate governance.