The CEO, National Water Harvesting and Storage Authority (NWHSA), Eng. Julius Mugun, has said innovative water harvesting and storage solutions could help address perennial flooding in Nairobi and other parts of the country.
Speaking during a three-day staff retreat in Naivasha, Eng. Mugun maintained that Kenya has the expertise required to develop infrastructure capable of mitigating devastating floods if institutions embrace innovation and work collaboratively.
The CEO noted that recurring floods affecting Nairobi and other urban centres can be significantly reduced through proper planning and investment in water infrastructure.
“The flood menace in Nairobi can become a thing of the past if we harness our collective minds for the benefit of the country. We must work together, make sacrifices and tirelessly serve the government and the nation,” urged Mugun.
Notably, Kenya has in recent years experienced destructive floods that have displaced families, damaged roads and destroyed property, underscoring the need for sustainable water management solutions.
In this regard, the CEO challenged NWHSA staff to embrace teamwork and innovation in developing projects that not only improve access to water but also enhance the country’s resilience to climate change.
Further, Mugun pointed out that the Authority’s mandate of identifying water sources for harvesting and storage places it at the centre of national efforts aimed at addressing both water scarcity and flooding.
“Our duty is not to make noise. Our duty is to bring our minds together, harness the brilliant ideas that exist within this organisation and identify the best solutions that will streamline water infrastructure development across the country,” he directed.
On her part, NWHSA Board Chairperson Dr. Jane Mwikali called on employees to remain united and focused on implementing government programmes geared towards improving the lives of Kenyans.
“We must avoid unnecessary squabbles and politics that interfere with our work. The country needs our collective effort now more than ever before,” rallied Dr. Mwikali.
She added that professionalism and teamwork would be critical in enabling the Authority to expand water harvesting and storage infrastructure and strengthen the country’s resilience to climate change.
The Authority is mandated to identify, develop and manage water harvesting and storage infrastructure to enhance water security and support sustainable socio-economic development across the country.
By Anita Kariuki
