Determinants of Sustainable Water Supply Among Urban Households in Kakamega Municipality, Kenya

Purpose: Globally, 2.2 billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water, with urban areas such as Kakamega Municipality in Kenya facing increasing challenges due to rapid population growth. This study focuses on understanding what most critically determines water supply among urban households in Kakamega, centering on Affordability, accessibility, water volume, and governance. Addressing these factors is vital for achieving reliable and Sustainable urban water systems. Design/Methodology/Approach: Simple random sampling was employed for households, while purposive sampling was used for water sector experts. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and Key Informant Interviews with Kakamega County Water and Sanitation Company and the Western Water and Sanitation Forum. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regressions, qualitative data was thematically analyzed. Findings: Pearson correlation analysis revealed weak but significant relationships between water access, government policies/regulations, and water supply. Regression confirmed water access as a significant predictor of supply reliability. Qualitative findings underscored infrastructural limitations, seasonal variability, governance gaps, and financing constraints. Implications/Originality/Value: The study demonstrates that to secure a sustainable and equitable urban water Supply in Kakamega Municipality, the most important actions are improving affordability, ensuring accessibility, strengthening regulatory frameworks, investing in Infrastructure, and fostering community participation.