NCBA Bank, in partnership with the Lake Victoria North Water Works Development Agency (LVNWWDA) and Water.org, has convened more than 100 contractors in Kakamega to explore financing opportunities aimed at strengthening contractor sustainability and improving project delivery within Kenya’s Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector.
The forum brought together contractors, development partners and industry stakeholders to discuss innovative financing solutions designed to address liquidity challenges that often hinder infrastructure development projects.
Flexible Financing Solutions for Contractors
Through NCBA’s WASH financing programme powered by Water.org, contractors can access funding ranging from KES 300,000 to KES 500 million. The financing package includes equipment financing of up to 60 months and capital expenditure and project financing of up to 120 months.
Additionally, contractors can secure financing of up to KES 6 million without traditional collateral requirements by leveraging receivables or awarded project contracts as security.
Supporting Infrastructure Development
Speaking during the forum, Robert Kiboti, Director of Corporate and SME Banking at NCBA Bank, emphasised the importance of water infrastructure in driving national development.
“Water infrastructure remains one of the most critical enablers of economic growth, public health, food security and climate resilience,” said Kiboti.
He noted that the partnership is designed to provide contractors with more than just financing by creating an ecosystem that offers access to capital, liquidity and tailored financial solutions.
“Through this partnership with Water.org and LVNWWDA, we are building an ecosystem that gives contractors the capital and financial support they need to deliver projects efficiently and sustainably. Ultimately, this translates into improved access to water and sanitation for communities across Kenya,” he added.
Strengthening Regional Water Projects
LVNWWDA welcomed the initiative, highlighting the role of strategic partnerships in accelerating water and sanitation infrastructure development.
According to Mark Kanda, a representative of LVNWWDA, collaboration between implementing agencies, financiers and contractors is essential for expanding access to water and sanitation services across the region.
“As we work to expand access to water and sanitation services, strong partnerships are critical to supporting timely infrastructure delivery that improves lives and drives economic development,” he said.
Contractors Cite Financing as Major Challenge
Contractors attending the forum identified access to affordable and flexible financing as one of the biggest barriers to project implementation, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises that require working capital before receiving project payments.
Samuel Mukanzi, Managing Director of Barbrican Dimensions Limited, said inadequate liquidity often affects contractors’ ability to mobilise resources and complete projects on schedule.
“One of the biggest challenges contractors in the water sector continue to face is access to financing. Without adequate liquidity, it becomes difficult to mobilise resources, maintain project timelines and deliver quality infrastructure. NCBA’s financing solutions will provide much-needed support to contractors and help improve project execution,” he said.
Driving Sustainable Growth Through Partnerships
The collaboration underscores the growing importance of public-private-development partnerships in mobilising capital for infrastructure investment and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Beyond financing projects, investments in water and sanitation infrastructure contribute to improved public health, enhanced food security, increased agricultural productivity and stronger community resilience.
Kiboti noted that contractors play a critical role in delivering Kenya’s development agenda.
“Every pipeline laid, every treatment facility built and every sanitation project completed creates lasting impact for communities. By strengthening contractor resilience, we strengthen Kenya’s development journey,” he said.
Part of NCBA’s Broader Infrastructure Financing Strategy
The Kakamega forum forms part of NCBA’s broader strategy to deepen its infrastructure financing portfolio while creating shared value through sector-focused initiatives that generate measurable economic, environmental and social impact.
The bank says the initiative will help bridge financing gaps in the WASH sector, accelerate infrastructure delivery and improve access to clean water and sanitation services for communities across the country.