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Members of Nairobi Water Justice Working Group yesterday took to the streets protesting against the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Services Bill 2023 that is before the Nairobi County Assembly.

The bill, that is sponsored by Nominated Member of County Assembly Joyce Muthoni, seeks among other things to transform Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC) into a company under the control of the county executive.

If the bill is passed, the NWSC will be under the full control of the City Hall instead of the current autonomous form. As an autonomous body, it manages its resources and is free from any outside interference.

Common good

Led by Odhiambo Oyoko, they faulted the bill, saying that it seeks to convert water from a common good to a private good which will reverse all the gains made in the provision of clean water to Nairobi residents especially those in informal settlements.

He also said there was no public participation when the bill was formulated saying that there are many issues affecting provision of water in the city that need to be addressed.

“Member of County Assembly (MCAs) should instead start the process of developing a comprehensive and inclusive water policy and law that takes into account the needs of city residents especially those in informal settlements,” he said.