Mombasa County Deputy Governor Dr William Kingi, has issued a statement, regarding the sudden water shortage in Mombasa.
On Monday, Kingi addressed the press, saying:
"Mombasa has had a water issue for a long time.
This is because of lack of our own water source and therefore depending solely on water from neighbouring counties.
Even with this, we are only able to supply 45,000 cubic metres against a demand of 186,000 cubic metres.
Baricho wells from Voi has been supplying Mombasa with the highest volumes of around 35000 cubic metres to 40,000 cubic metres.
On Wednesday 25th April 2018 at around 10a.m, due to the on-going heavy rains, upstream of River Sabaki, flood water submerged the 3 upstream wells leading to their closure.
As a result, there has been no water supply to Kilifi and Mombasa counties.
The Coast Water Services Board in conjunction with the Department of Water and Natural Resources is appealing to the National Government for funds for urgent repair of the boreholes which are estimated at approximately Kshs250 Million.
Meanwhile the Coast Water Services Board, the County Government of Mombasa and the Water Service Providers are preparing to supply water to the most affected residents of Mombasa County using water bowers which will be located at specific areas to be announced soon.
Residents of the affected areas will have specified days for delivery.
The residents of both Mombasa and Kilifi counties are advised to harvest rain water and to conserve the little water available. Residents are also advised to use home water treatment methods including use of aqua tabs which can be purchased in super markets.
Water kiosks operators are warned to sell a jerry can of water at the regularized 2shs and should not inflate the prices.
Tomorrow the joint team shall be visiting the Baricho water treatment plant to assess further damage and advice on the progress."