By Jameson
The Water Resources Authority has raised concerns over a growing trend of violations of the Water Act 2016 and the Water Resources Regulations 2025, warning that continued non compliance threatens the sustainability and equitable allocation of Kenya’s water resources.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Water Resources Authority Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Shurie said the agency has observed a significant rise in illegal water abstraction and widespread failure by users to obtain or comply with water use permits.
The Authority, which is mandated under Section 12 of the Water Act to regulate the management, protection and conservation of the country’s water resources, noted that the trend is undermining science based and data driven efforts to ensure fair distribution of water to all legitimate users.
According to the Shurie, political interference has increasingly contributed to the violations, with some leaders allegedly inciting communities to ignore WRA directives. A recent incident in Kieni, Nyeri County, was cited as an example where abstractors were reportedly encouraged to contravene regulations under false claims that the Authority was vandalising equipment.
WRA warned that leaders of private entities whose permit applications are approved but later found to be in violation will be held liable and prosecuted. For government institutions, responsibility will fall on top officials including managing directors in cases of non compliance.
“The law is clear. Any form of non compliance with the Water Act and its Regulations is an offence and will attract enforcement action,” WRA stated, adding that such actions damage ecosystems, disrupt fair allocation and ultimately harm communities and future users.
The Authority emphasised that all official communications are issued directly to registered water abstractors, who remain responsible for adhering to permit conditions. It urged those without valid permits to visit WRA offices or apply through the e permitting system, and those with expired permits to renew them promptly.
As a temporary relief measure, WRA announced the suspension of all mass disconnections related to non payment of water use fees, effective from 10 December 2025. The pause is intended to allow Kenyans to celebrate the festive season without disruption. Enforcement operations will resume on 15 January 2026.
WRA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the country’s water resources and called on all users, community leaders and stakeholders to comply with the law and support sustainable water use practices.
