A Thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Business Administration (Corporate Management)of the School of Business KCA University
Kenya is a water scarce country and faces numerous management challenges. It is in this
recognition that the Government prioritized increasing access to sustainable, reliable,
clean and affordable water services within its overall policy framework for wealth and
employment creation. The water sector has thus undergone major structural reforms
aimed at improving water service provision. Several institutions, key among them water
services boards have been formed to help in the management of this scarce and yet
essential resource. The overall objective of this study was on the challenges facing the
implementation of water sector reforms at Tana water services board with a view of
providing appropriate recommendations and solutions to address them. Self administered
questionnaires and key informants were used to collect data. The data collected was
presented in form tables, pie charts and bar charts. The target population for the study
comprised of all the staff in Tana water services board (TWSB) except the level of
subordinate for the purpose of generalization. The study found out that a regulatory frame
work consists of set of rules and processes that bind the water and sanitation services
providers in the country, including the formal rules and informal rules. The study
concluded that for regulations and regulatory framework to be successful, they must be
accessed not only on how they drive utilities to greater efficiency and protect existing
customers, but also on what role they play in ensuring that services reach the poor in the
communities while still being cost effective. On analysing the institutional and
administrative capability, the study found out that for a private entity to enter into
funding, there should be a provision for the regulation in the water act. Without proper
structures in place, delays in project start-ups, contract cancellations, and legal disputes
can end up overshadowing success stories and efficiency gains.