[File,Standard]The government will keep national identity card applications and replacements free until 2027, as it moves to overhaul water financing and expand irrigation amid climate shocks. At the same time, Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa outlined a shift in how the State funds water projects, moving away from reliance on the National Exchequer and foreign partners. He added the State will use the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF) to support large-scale projects through Public-Private Partnerships, allowing private investors to finance dams and water systems. On stalled projects, Mugaa said the government rejected a proposed structure for the Itare Dam after due diligence and has written to the Italian government seeking a new contractor. The announcement comes as Kenya marks International World Water Day today in Meru County, under the theme "Water and Gender Equality."

Source: Standard Digital March 22, 2026 11:48 UTC