Private tanker owners opposes attempts by Mowassco to regulate their operations
You can’t regulate us, private tankers tell Mombasa Water Supply and Sanitation Company
The private water tanker owners in Mombasa, organized under the Pwani Water Bowsers Welfare Association (Pwabowa), have strongly opposed attempts by the Mombasa Water Supply and Sanitation Company (Mowassco) to regulate their operations. Mowassco’s initiative aims to enforce regulations on private water tankers, borehole operators, and other entities involved in water supply services to address issues like illegal connections and ensure hygiene standards.
Abdirahim Farah, the managing director of Mowassco, highlighted concerns over water theft through illegal connections and substantial leakages in the county’s water infrastructure. He emphasized the need for comprehensive regulation to monitor water sources and enforce compliance with established standards.
However, Joseck Njeka, chairman of Pwabowa, argued that Mowassco cannot act as their regulator since it operates as a competitor in the water supply sector. He stated that the county government and the Water Services Regulatory Board (Wasreb) already regulate their activities, issuing licenses and health certificates to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Njeka emphasized that Pwabowa was formed to improve water delivery services and uphold regulatory standards set by the county government. He clarified that their water sources are licensed by the county and stressed that they supply purified water, not sourced from Mowassco.
Members of Pwabowa, including Josphat Sivirike, highlighted their role in bridging the gap of water scarcity in Mombasa, sourcing water from private firms to meet local demand. They expressed frustration at being labeled as “water cartels” and argued that their services complement rather than compete with Mowassco’s efforts.
Changamwe MCA Bernard Ogutu supported Pwabowa, praising their contribution to addressing water shortages in the region and advocating for their recognition and support. The Mombasa County Assembly has taken notice of the situation, summoning Mowassco’s managing director to provide explanations regarding ongoing water supply challenges.
The conflict underscores broader issues of regulatory authority and competition within Mombasa’s water supply sector, reflecting tensions between private operators and the municipal water utility in ensuring adequate and efficient water service delivery to residents.
Private tanker owners opposes attempts by Mowassco to regulate their operations
