The National Water Harvesting and Storage Authority (NWHSA) has said innovative water harvesting and storage solutions could provide a lasting answer to the recurring flooding that continues to affect Nairobi and other parts of the country.
Speaking during a three-day retreat in Naivasha, NWHSA Chief Executive Officer Eng. Julius Mugun challenged the authority’s technical teams to develop creative solutions that address both water scarcity and flooding.
“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,” said Mugun.
The CEO said the authority has a key role to play in developing infrastructure that captures and stores excess water, reducing the destruction caused by floods while creating additional water resources for irrigation, domestic use and power generation.
Mugun called on staff to embrace innovation and teamwork as the country grapples with the effects of climate change, including prolonged droughts and increased flooding in urban centres.
He said the authority should focus on identifying water sources that can be harvested and converted into development opportunities.
NWHSA Board Chairperson Dr. Jane Mwikali said the institution’s work is critical to improving the lives of millions of Kenyans and strengthening the country’s climate resilience.
“We must avoid unnecessary squabbles and politics that interfere with our work. The country needs our collective effort now more than ever before,” she said.
Dr. Mwikali noted that the authority’s professionals have the expertise needed to develop solutions that address some of the country’s most pressing water challenges.
The retreat ended with participants committing to strengthen collaboration and accelerate the development of water harvesting and storage infrastructure that can help improve water access, boost food production and protect communities from the impacts of climate change.
