Analysis of the Effect of Water Sector Reforms on Governance of Water by Athi Water Services Board, Kenya

Abstract

The governance of the AWSB remains a challenge. There are concerns about corruption, limited stakeholder participation and weak accountability mechanisms. This has led to inefficiencies, mismanagement of water resources and inadequate access to clean and safe water for the population served by the AWSB. This study examined the effects of water sector reforms on governance at Athi Water Services Board, analyzing coverage, reporting, stakeholder participation, challenges, and the influence of government legislation and donors, using a mixed-methods approach and data from 80 employees at various management levels.Validity and reliability of the research instruments were assessed, and both qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted. The correlation results revealed significant positive associations between coverage, reporting, and stakeholder participation with governance (r=.726, p=.000; r=.734, p=000; r=.611, p=000), while challenges exhibited a negative and significant association (r=-.458, p=000). Regression analysis further indicated that coverage (β=.337, p=0.000), reporting (β=.241, p=0.004), and stakeholder participation (β=.182, p=0.039) were positively and significantly related to governance, whereas challenges (β=.-135, p=0.046) had a negative and significant impact. Moreover, government legislation and donors were identified as effective moderators. Based on the findings, several recommendations are proposed. These include establishing adequate connectivity to informal sectors with sufficient water supply, developing additional water sources, and improving the frequency of water supply in urban areas. It is crucial to prepare and maintain a strategic plan, ensure the independence of the finance department from management, and enable stakeholders to freely inspect financial records. Active involvement of stakeholders is recommended to better understand the root causes of challenges in the water sector. Adequate funding should be directed towards the water sector to facilitate project engagement, and efforts should be made to enhance services for the benefit of Kenyans. Finally, investments should be prioritized in infrastructure necessary for the production of clean water.