Governor Bii Vows to Slash Water Bills After Outrage Over Fivefold Hike!
“It is not the county government that sets these tariffs—it is WASREB. However, we have listened to the concerns of our people and have held discussions with WASREB,” said Governor Bii.
Uasin Gishu County Governor H.E. Dr. Jonathan Bii has assured residents of plans to push for a revision of water tariffs following widespread public dissatisfaction over recent steep hikes in water bills.
The increase, which saw some households’ water costs multiply by up to five times, has been a contentious issue across the county.
Addressing the media on Friday, Governor Bii clarified that the tariff adjustments were not a county decision but were set by the Water Services Regulatory Board (WASREB), a national body responsible for regulating water pricing standards.
Click Video Linkhttps://www.tiktok.com/@hubzmediaeldoret/video/7436408895666490680?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7407727160260068870
“It is not the county government that sets these tariffs—it is WASREB. However, we have listened to the concerns of our people and have held discussions with WASREB,” said Governor Bii. “We recognize the heavy burden these high tariffs have placed on our residents, especially during these challenging economic times. Our administration is committed to ensuring the tariffs are revised downwards to a more reasonable and affordable level.”
The water tariff increases have sparked protests across Uasin Gishu County, with residents expressing frustration on social media and during public forums. Many reported receiving bills that were unaffordable, raising concerns about access to this essential resource.
Local resident Mary Cherono shared her plight: “Last month, my bill was five times higher than usual. How are ordinary citizens supposed to cope with such drastic changes? We appreciate the governor’s commitment, but we need action soon.”
Governor Bii assured residents that his administration would continue advocating for their interests to ensure water remains both accessible and affordable. He emphasized that WASREB, as an independent body, bears the responsibility for setting tariffs but highlighted the county’s active role in seeking solutions.
“We are committed to ensuring equitable access to water. We will keep engaging with WASREB and other stakeholders to find a sustainable and fair solution that meets the needs of our people,” he said.
The governor also encouraged residents to keep providing feedback, emphasizing that the county government is open to dialogue and collaboration to address this pressing issue.
As discussions with WASREB continue, residents remain cautiously optimistic that Governor Bii’s intervention will bring relief and ensure a fair pricing model for water services in Uasin Gishu County.