The East African Breweries PLC (EABL) has committed Kes190 million towards the restoration and preservation of Kenya's vital water towers. This contribution, which is part of marking World Water Day this Friday, is one of the initiatives meant to enhance Kenya's ongoing battle against climate change, carbon emissions, and the looming threat of water scarcity.

The support has been split into two parts, both symbolizing a united effort to bolster Kenya's water conservation strategy, curb greenhouse gas emissions, and reverse the tide of deforestation.

Overall, the initiative stems from a collaborative spirit, aiming to secure the ecological balance and ensure the livelihoods of communities dependent on these ecosystems.

On Tuesday Ms. Debra Crew, CEO of Diageo, EABL’s parent company, met with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi where she committed that the firm will give Kes100 million towards enhancing the environmental fortitude of Kenya, a nation grappling with the adverse effects of environmental degradation.

The ‘Conservation at Scale’ initiative, championed by The Executive Office of the President and spearheaded by the Office of the Climate Envoy, seeks to provide strategic direction at the highest level.

This initiative is aligned with national climate goals and the outcomes of the Africa Climate Summit 2023, showcasing a dedicated effort to protect Kenya's natural heritage.

Read also: Kenya is leading the way for a Net Zero Economy driven by Green Hydrogen

EABL announced a second tranche of Kes60 million on Wednesday, earmarked for enhancing water conservation efforts and safeguarding the Upper Tana, Nairobi’s key water source.

This effort is in partnership with the Upper Tana Nairobi Water Fund Trust (UTNWFT), aiming to engage both public and private sectors in sustainable water use and stewardship.

Eric Kiniti, EABL’s Group Corporate Relations Director, noted that the conpany is committed to driving environmental and societal welfare. "EABL has long been dedicated to water conservation, investing Kes780 million in water recovery plants in Nairobi and Kisumu. These efforts are part of our broader mission to ensure water security and sustainability in the region," Kiniti stated.

The focus on the Upper Tana watershed is crucial, given its importance as a water source for Nairobi's rapidly growing population. The Kes60 million investment is part of a broader Kes190 million initiative aimed at environmental conservation to combat climate change effects.

Julius Korir, Principal Secretary for Water and Sanitation, lauded the investments, underscoring the critical role of sustainable water management in fostering economic growth and community peace.

Eddy Njoroge, President of UTNWFT, added that the partnerships can drive innovative water stewardship solutions, further ensuring water resource availability for all Kenyans.

In 2023, KBL supported the Upper Tana Nairobi Water Fund with a Kes5 million grant, aiding farmers in planting high-value fruit trees to combat climate change, while also providing food and income.

World Water Day is an opportunity to spotlight the urgent need for water conservation, collaborative efforts, and innovative solutions to address water scarcity. The partnership between EABL, UTNWFT, and the Kenyan government represents a significant step forward in securing a sustainable and water-abundant future for Kenya.

[email protected]