End Water Cartels! Demand Clean, Affordable Tap Water for Narok Residents!

PETITION TO NAROK COUNTY GOVERNMENT FOR THE PROVISION OF CLEAN, TREATED DOMESTIC TAP WATER TO NAROK RESIDENTS

Access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental human right and a crucial driver of economic productivity and sustainable development. Despite Narok River (Enkare Narok) flowing through Narok town, thousands of residents remain unconnected to a reliable domestic water supply. Instead, an unregulated water-selling business has emerged, controlled by cartels that exploit residents who are forced to purchase water at inflated prices.

The lack of a piped water system in Narok town is a failure of public service delivery, affecting households, businesses, schools, and other institutions.

We, the residents of Narok County, demand immediate action to ensure clean and affordable domestic water for all.

Problem Statement.
Narok town and its surrounding areas face a severe water accessibility crisis due to the following issues:

1. Lack of Domestic Water Connections Many residents do not have access to piped water and rely on expensive private vendors.

2. Exploitation by Water Cartels Water from Enkare Narok is controlled by a few individuals who sell it at high prices, making it unaffordable for low-income households.

3. Underutilization of a Natural Water Source Despite Enkare Narok flowing through Narok town, the county has not invested in a reliable water treatment and distribution system.

⚠️Violation of Constitutional Rights

Article 43(1)(d) of the Kenyan Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to clean and safe water in adequate quantities. The current situation denies Narok residents this right.

Petition Requests
We, the undersigned residents of Narok County, demand the following immediate interventions from the county government:

(a) Development of a Sustainable Water Supply Infrastructure

(i) Establish a water treatment and distribution system using Enkare Narok to provide a reliable domestic water supply.

(ii) Expand the piped water network to reach all households, businesses, and institutions.

(b) Regulation and Elimination of Water Cartels

(i) Implement strict policies to regulate private water vendors and prevent price exploitation.

(ii) Develop a transparent framework for water distribution that ensures fair pricing and accessibility for all.

(c) Expansion of Piped Water Connectivity

(i) Provide affordable household water connections, prioritizing underserved areas.

(ii) Offer subsidies or flexible payment plans to make water connections affordable for low-income families.

(d) Community Engagement and Public Awareness

(i) Involve residents in water governance through public participation forums.

(ii) Conduct awareness campaigns on the importance of clean water and conservation efforts.

(e) Collaboration with the National Government and Development Partners

(i) Secure funding from national government programs and development agencies for long-term water infrastructure projects.

(ii) Explore public-private partnerships to improve efficiency in water service delivery.

Expected Impact
If these measures are implemented, the following benefits will be realized:
✔ Affordable and reliable access to clean domestic water for all residents.
✔ Economic relief for households currently burdened by high water costs.
✔ Eradication of water cartels and improved governance in water distribution.
✔ Sustainable urban development and improved quality of life.

Call to Action
(i) The lack of a piped water system in Narok town is an urgent issue that demands immediate attention. We call upon the Narok County Government to provide a clear action plan and timeline for implementation.

(i) Failure to act will leave residents with no choice but to seek legal redress (or hold peaceful demonstrations) to demand their constitutional rights.

We, the people of Narok County, deserve access to clean and affordable water

—NOW, not later!