Programme Components

This component delivers water services to underserved communities in ASAL counties through nature-based solutions, aquifer recharge infrastructure and community-led conservation.

Sub-Component 1A: Nature-Based Solutions

• Establishing and strengthening Water Resources Users Associations (WRUAs)
• Protecting aquifer recharge zones through gazettement and nature-based infrastructure
• Managed aquifer recharge infrastructure: Berkads, water pans, sub-surface dams, sand dams, Djabias, infiltration ponds, spreading channels
• Gazettement of groundwater conservation areas
• Community conservation livelihoods: pasture growing, beekeeping, tree planting

Sub-Component 1B: Rural Water Supply

• 110+ rural water supply schemes for rehabilitation and new drilling
• Solar-powered pumping systems for remote communities
• Piped water supply extensions to underserved areas

This component builds the knowledge base for groundwater management through comprehensive aquifer assessments, a national groundwater information system, and strengthening the Regional Centre on Groundwater (RCGW).

Key Deliverables

• Aquifer Assessments, Development & Management Plans (AAD&MPs) for 8 selected NEDI aquifers
• 46 exploratory boreholes — productive wells equipped for water supply
• 46 monitoring boreholes providing real-time groundwater level data
• Groundwater Management Information System (GWMIS) with mobile data entry app
• Strengthening RCGW with equipment and capacity for regional coordination

This component builds institutional capacity of national and county governments to manage, govern and sustainably develop groundwater resources.

Key Activities

• Institutional reforms and policy support for water governance in ASAL counties
• Capacity building programmes for county water departments and sub-PIUs
• E-learning integration through RCGW online training platform
• Groundwater Development & Management Policy (GDMP) for Kenya
• Gender Equality & Social Inclusion (GESI) training and awareness programmes
• Knowledge exchange with IGAD and regional groundwater institutions

This component ensures effective project coordination, financial management, monitoring and evaluation, safeguards compliance and emergency response readiness.

Key Activities

• Project Coordination Unit (PCU) operations at MoWSI headquarters
• M&E framework implementation and results tracking
• Environmental and Social safeguards compliance monitoring (ESF/ESCP)
• Financial management and semi-annual IFR reporting to World Bank
• National Project Steering Committee (NPSC) meetings
• Contingent Emergency Response Component (CERC) readiness planning
• GRM administration and community engagement communications