Kenya’s Water and Sanitation Investors Conference 2024, held in Nairobi, concluded with a resounding call for accelerated investment towards achieving universal access to water and sanitation by 2030. The conference, spanning from March 6 to 8, emphasized the imperative for collaboration to bolster governments’ efforts in closing the financing gap, primarily through private sector funding and blended financing
mechanisms involving commercial banks, Development Finance Institutions, and capital markets. Kenya aims to secure approximately Ksh 995 billion (equivalent to around $7.5 billion) to realize universal water and sanitation access by 2030.
Mercuria Assefaw, Manager of the African Development Bank Water Security and Sanitation Division, underscored the necessity of diversifying investments within the sector to address the financing shortfall. He emphasized the pivotal role of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in ensuring equitable water and sanitation access for all.
“Facilitating collaboration for PPPs unlocks new avenues for investments and capital,” Assefaw remarked, noting that sustained, long-term efforts are essential to bridge the financing gap in the sector. Assefaw cited successful PPP endeavors such as Rwanda’s Kigali Bulk Water Supply Project, co-financed by the Bank and other development partners, which has significantly enhanced water services for half a million people.
