Speaking during the marking of the Belgian King’s Day, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Didier Reynders stated that this underscored the cordial relationship between the two countries/FILE
NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 21 – Belgium has approved a donation of Sh2.6 billion to the government for the construction of the massive Mavoko Water Project.
Speaking during the marking of the Belgian King’s Day, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Didier Reynders stated that this underscored the cordial relationship between the two countries.
“This donation will ensure that the cordial relationship between Kenya and Belgium is maintained and that as partners we will move ahead together as far as development is concerned,” he stated.
The Belgian Envoy underscored the need for both countries to work together in a bid to improve the livelihoods of their citizens.
He said that Belgium will continue to support water development projects in the country.
“Belgium will continue to support various projects especially for the most water needy counties in Kenya. Just last Friday, we approves Sh2.6 billion water project in Mavoko to ensure adequate water supply for the area,” he said.
He stated that they will also be reviewing the tax requirements when moving goods between Kenya and Belgium to avoid double taxation.
“Moving forward, we will be sitting down with representatives from Kenya to see how we can minimise or at most eliminate double taxation between our two countries,” he stated.
Speaking during the function, Water Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa stated that once completed, the Mavoko Water Project will significantly increase the provision of water to Kenyans.
He stated that the partnership with the Belgian government will strengthen the bonds between the two countries and while meeting the needs of Kenyans.
He encouraged other stakeholders to come together and ensure that no one misses out in the essential component of living.
Earlier during the day, the Water CS opened the inaugural Kenya Water Week at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre.
He indicated that that there are emerging fears of trans- boundary waters becoming a source of conflict as water becomes scarce relative to demand.
“To mitigate the potential risks, the development of trans –boundary water policy to facilitate effective management of trans-boundary waters has been finalized and approved. Concurrently, the sub sector has initiated bilateral agreements through Memoranda of Understanding with neighbouring countries to promote cooperative frameworks for sustainable management and equitable utilization of shared water resources,” he stated.
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