Analysis of trends in the performance of urban water utilities: a case study of Embu Water and Sanitation Company

Poor performance and lack of sustainability of water utilities in developing countries begs for a reform of institutional and policy environment in which they operate. Kenyan Water Act 2002 was passed, in part, to address reforms to the institutional framework and improving finance mechanisms. This case study assessed the institutional capacity of Embu Water and Sanitation Company (EWASCO) and the trends in performance since the water sector reforms. Interview guides, review of documents related to EWASCO, observations and literature review were used to collect information on several performance categories. EWASCO has been accorded substantial but regulated level of managerial and policy autonomy. A strategic management concept has been used to derive a solution-oriented planning framework for its operations. Performance efficiency has been achieved through commercial, managerial and technical best practises leading to improved financial sustainability enabling EWASCO to increase service coverage. EWASCO has some useful lessons for other utilities.