Most cities in low- and middle-income countries are unable to keep up with rapid urbanization and provide citywide coverage of piped water services. Typically, small, local providers, who are often not recognized or regulated officially, will informally serve a significant proportion of the people without access to piped water connections in the absence of reliable public service provision. In Kenya, USAID URBAN WASH is partnering with the national regulator, Water Services Regulatory Board, and utilities in western Kenya to conduct implementation research on how cities have begun to formalize these local water vendors. This research will inform decision-making regarding formalizing water vendors by:
This research inception report provides background information on water services in Kenya, summarizes key evidence gaps, and details the planned research methods.