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WRA Raises Alarm Over Rising Non-Compliance With the Water Act 2016 and the Water Resources Regulations 2025

By Jeff Kizzilah 
Mohammed Shurie, Chief Executive Officer,Water Resources Authority (WRA)/photo 

The Water Resources Authority (WRA) wishes to notify the public and all water users of a growing trend of non-compliance with the Water Act 2016 and the Water Resources Regulations 2025—an issue that poses a serious threat to the sustainable management of Kenya’s water resources.

Under Section 12 of the Water Act 2016, WRA is mandated to regulate the management, protection, conservation, and equitable use of the country’s water resources. Central to this mandate is the water use permitting system, which ensures transparency, fairness, and data-driven allocation of water to legitimate users.
However, recent months have seen a significant rise in violations, particularly through illegal water abstraction and failure to obtain or adhere to water use permits. Of growing concern are instances where political actors have incited or encouraged non-compliance, including a recent case in Kieni, Nyeri County, where abstractors were urged to defy lawful WRA directives. WRA clarifies that allegations of equipment vandalism are false.

The Authority reiterates that leaders of private entities whose permit applications or activities violate regulations will face prosecution. For government institutions, responsibility will fall on the relevant Managing Directors or departmental heads, who will be held accountable for any breaches of the Water Resources Regulations.

WRA reminds the public that non-compliance with the Water Act is a criminal offence, attracting enforcement measures as stipulated by law. These violations undermine water sustainability, disrupt equitable allocation, and jeopardize the well-being of communities, ecosystems, and future generations.

The Authority communicates directly with permit holders and urges all water users to take immediate corrective action.
WRA advises that:

Permit holders must regularize their abstractions.

Individuals without valid permits should visit designated WRA offices or apply through the e-permitting system.

Holders of expired permits must apply for renewal without delay.

In consideration of the festive season, WRA has suspended all mass disconnections related to water use fee arrears effective today, 10th December 2025. This suspension is a goodwill gesture to allow Kenyans to celebrate the holiday period peacefully. Enforcement will resume on 15th January 2026.

WRA reaffirms its commitment to protecting Kenya’s water resources for both current and future generations. The Authority calls on all abstractors, community leaders, and stakeholders to uphold the law and collaborate in promoting responsible and sustainable water use.

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