Games
Teams of various sports drawn from water service providers across the country have camped in Murang’a to take part in this year’s Water Companies Sports Organization (WASCO).
More than 52 water companies are participating in the 5-day 13th WASCO games, an event that was officially opened by Water Cabinet secretary Eng. Eric Muriithi on Monday morning.
The participants, led by the CS and Murang’a governor Irungu Kang’ata joined hands to plant 10, 000 seedlings at Mbiri primary school compound in line of honoring this year’s theme of combating climate change through sports. Congratulating the National Governing council for hosting the games, the CS said sports have always had a unique power to bring people together, transcending differences and fostering a spirit of camaraderie.
“Games provide an opportunity to unwind, recharge and to bond with colleagues, a recognition that a healthy, motivated and engaged workforce is key to delivering quality services that we all depend on,” said Muriithi. Water companies, the CS noted, are the backbone of water and sanitation services, pledging the ministry’s support towards the WASCO games.
“We are cognizant that provision of water and sanitation services play a key role in the socio-economic development of all sectors. As a ministry we are keen towards improving accessibility of this critical service to all citizens as enshrined in the constitution,” he added.
Muriithi observed that climate change has affected water utilities, asking the participants to use this platform to not only compete and celebrate but also to make a lasting impact on the world. The ministry of water, he divulged, has planted over 1 million seedlings as a means of mitigating climate change. “I urge us all to replicate and scale up these efforts within our water utilities.”
Welcoming the teams, Governor Kang’ata said the event brings together dedicated professionals who ensure communities have access to clean and safe water, a resource that is essential for life and development. Kang’ata encouraged the participants to engage in friendly competition and asked them to take some time to explore the county and enjoy hospitality, experience rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that Murang’a has to offer.
On his part, Chairman of Water and Sanitation Providers Association (WASPA) Dr. Moses Kinya said the games are a shared celebration to health, resilience and unity. He noted that sports play a crucial role in addressing issues of climate change in the modern world as water utilities were at the forefront in the fight against climate change.
Dr Kinya noted, “our daily activities in managing water resources, ensuring access to clean water and maintaining sanitation services, are essential in building climate resilience.” He stated that sports, akin to their workplaces, have rules which create structure and discipline urging the participants to uphold discipline during the competitions.
“Let us take these excellent opportunities to interact, build lasting connections and strengthen the bonds that are crucial to the success of our organizations as well as here in the field.By working together let us learn to not only work collaboratively in the field but also to address sector challenges such as high non-revenue water,” he added.
Managing Director of Murang’a water and sanitation company (Muwasco) Eng. Daniel Ng’ang’a said as managing directors of water companies they fully support the organizers of WASCO as they express their commitment to providing a conducive and supportive environment for all participants across various disciplines.
“I urge the WASCO organizing committee to consider collaborating with established sports teams beyond our sector both at national and international levels. I also encourage our member companies to make necessary provisions to support WASCO teams in representing our nation at the East Africa sports and cultural games.” averred Ng’ang’a.