Taita Taveta MCAs Demand Answers Over Prolonged Water Shortages in Chawia Ward

Members of the Taita Taveta County Assembly have intensified pressure on the county government and TAVEVO Water and Sewerage Company over prolonged water shortages affecting several villages in Chawia Ward.

The matter was raised during Sitting No. 036 by Chawia Ward MCA Hon. Mabishi, who sought a formal statement from the County Assembly’s Water and Irrigation Committee regarding persistent water rationing and supply interruptions in Kitivo Villages, Madangonyi, Landi, Bungule, Jora, and Reli-Ronge.

Hon. Mabishi informed the House that residents in the affected areas have reportedly gone for nearly one month without reliable access to water after a previous rationing schedule was allegedly discontinued without notice.

The Majority Whip further questioned why some households connected to the same water supply network continue receiving water while the majority of residents remain without supply, raising concerns over fairness and transparency in water distribution.

He demanded clarification from the Department of Water and TAVEVO on:

• Why the previous rationing schedule was abandoned;
• Whether authorities are aware of allegations of selective water distribution;
• The criteria currently being used to allocate water in the affected villages;
• Immediate interventions being undertaken to restore water supply; and
• Long-term plans to ensure sustainable and equitable distribution during periods of scarcity.

The debate sparked sharp criticism of TAVEVO Water and Sewerage Company from MCAs across the county.

Deputy Speaker Hon. Crispus Tondoo accused TAVEVO of failing in its mandate despite being a fully established county water utility company tasked with ensuring reliable water supply to residents.

Tondoo called for the dissolution of the company, arguing that recurring water crises continue to expose residents to unnecessary suffering.

Majority Leader Hon. Khalifa Taraya also faulted the company over what he described as poor financial sustainability, claiming that TAVEVO’s operational expenditure currently exceeds its revenue.

Taraya proposed the establishment of a separate rural water distribution company to improve access to water in underserved rural areas.

Minority Leader Hon. Joseph Mwalegha criticized TAVEVO for negligence and failure to adequately address frequent pump breakdowns that continue to disrupt water supply across the county.

Rong’e Ward MCA Hon. Dorcas Mlughu condemned what she termed exorbitant water bills being charged despite many residents lacking consistent supply.

Meanwhile, Hon. Patricia Mwashighadi accused the company of selective water distribution, alleging that some commercial premises continue receiving water while ordinary residents are forced to travel long distances to areas such as Bura in search of water.

Marungu Ward MCA Hon. Stephen Nzai urged TAVEVO to adopt alternative emergency distribution methods, including deploying water bowsers to affected communities.

Wundanyi/Mbale Ward MCA Hon. Jimmy Mwamidi criticized the company’s lack of preparedness and proactive planning, saying the ongoing shortages have severely affected both rural and urban residents.

Kasighau Ward MCA Hon. Amos Makalo warned that continued failure to address the crisis could trigger major reforms within the company.

In response to the concerns raised, the Chairperson of the Water and Irrigation Committee requested seven days to conduct investigations and table a comprehensive report before the County Assembly.