Meru County has launched an ambitious five-year strategic plan aimed at modernizing and expanding water and sanitation services across its rapidly growing urban areas. The Meru County Urban Water & Sanitation Services Corporation (MEWASCO) announced the 2021–2026 blueprint as a pathway to meeting rising demand for clean, affordable, and reliable water while addressing long-standing challenges in wastewater management. The plan focuses on improving infrastructure, strengthening institutional capacity, and ensuring the financial sustainability of the county’s water systems.
Speaking during the launch, Deputy Governor Titus Ntuchiu highlighted the administration’s commitment to ending persistent water shortages, echoing earlier pledges made under Governor Kiraitu Murungi’s manifesto. He noted that the county has already sunk 195 solar-powered boreholes in water-scarce regions, supplying at least 70,000 households and supporting several community water initiatives. County Water CEC Dr. Eunice Kobia added that Meru continues to invest in a mix of piped, rainwater, and groundwater systems to bolster access and resilience. MEWASCO CEO Joseph Mberia announced that the new plan aims to double Meru town’s current water supply capacity—currently at 80,000 cubic metres—through expanded distribution networks and modernized service delivery.
The launch brought together regional water experts, sector leaders, and community stakeholders, who welcomed the plan as a crucial step toward securing Meru’s long-term water future. With urban populations rising and climate pressures intensifying, leaders emphasized the need for coordinated investment and sustainable management practices. If fully implemented, the strategy is expected to significantly improve hygiene standards, reduce water shortages, and support economic growth across Meru’s urban centres, marking a major milestone in the county’s journey toward universal access to clean water and dignified sanitation.