THIWASCO dismisses claims of cartels sabotaging water supply, blames shortages on prolonged dry spell

Thika, February 6, 2026

The Thika Water and Sewerage Company Limited (THIWASCO) has attributed the ongoing intermittent water supply affecting several parts of Thika and its surrounding areas to the prevailing dry spell and a sharp rise in water demand.

In a public notice dated February 5, 2026, and signed by its Managing Director, Dr. Moses Kinya, the company acknowledged the challenges residents are facing and assured customers that measures are being taken to manage the situation and ensure equitable water distribution.

THIWASCO explained that reduced water levels at its sources, caused by prolonged dry weather, have constrained production capacity, resulting in some areas experiencing low pressure or temporary outages. The company noted that demand for water has risen significantly during this period, placing additional strain on the supply system.

Addressing claims circulating among residents, the water utility dismissed allegations that cartels using water bowsers are deliberately denying customers access to clean water. According to THIWASCO, private water bowsers draw water from a single designated standpipe near the production plant, which was intentionally established to help supply areas facing low pressure or complete water shortages.

The company clarified that water supplied to private bowsers accounts for only 0.17 per cent of its total production, describing the volume as negligible and not a factor contributing to the shortages. THIWASCO emphasised that its teams are instead struggling to keep pace with the unusually high demand brought about by the dry spell.

To further mitigate the situation, THIWASCO disclosed that it has engaged the Water Resources Authority (WRA) to regulate water abstraction by upstream users along river intakes supplying the company’s treatment plants, as declining river levels continue to affect production.

While expressing understanding of public frustration, the company apologised for the inconvenience caused and reiterated that its technical teams are continuously reviewing and adjusting the water distribution programme to achieve a fairer supply across all affected areas.

In the meantime, residents have been urged to use water sparingly, with THIWASCO noting that conservation remains critical during the dry season. The company pledged to keep customers informed on progress and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring sustainable access to clean and safe water.