upply, sanitation and hygiene projects across the countrCo-operative Bank of Kenya has received a major industry award after disbursing KSh4.39 billion to support water sy.
The bank received the Leadership in Water Infrastructure and Finance Award at the Africa WaterCredits Forum 2026, held in Nairobi on Friday, October 16.
The recognition follows the bank's financing of water infrastructure and service providers through its specialised lending product, Co-op A Maji, which supports investments aimed at improving access to clean water and sanitation.
According to the bank, the financing was disbursed between March 2023 and August 2026, exceeding the initial target of KSh3 billion set under its partnership with international non-profit organisation Water.org.
How Co-op Bank Is Financing Water Projects
Through Co-op A Maji, the bank provides financing to individuals, small businesses, medium-sized enterprises and institutions investing in water and sanitation services.
The facility supports the purchase of equipment and infrastructure such as water tanks, solar-powered pumps, water connections, water bowsers, exhausters and smart meters.
These investments help water service providers expand their operations and improve the delivery of services to households and businesses.
The financing is intended to support communities in urban, peri-urban and rural areas, where access to reliable water and sanitation services remains a development priority.
Partnership Targets More Than 110,000 People
Co-op Bank launched its three-year partnership with Water.org in 2023, targeting more than KSh3 billion in water, sanitation and hygiene financing.
The initiative also aimed to improve access to water and sanitation services for more than 110,000 people.
By disbursing KSh4.39 billion during the reporting period, the bank exceeded its original financing target.
The results highlight the role commercial banks can play in supporting infrastructure investment beyond traditional sectors such as housing, manufacturing and trade.
Bank Highlights Importance of Water Financing
Co-op Bank Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Gideon Muriuki said reliable water and sanitation services remain among Kenya's key development priorities.
He noted that innovative financing was necessary to turn infrastructure plans into practical services that improve people's livelihoods.
The bank said its Co-op A Maji product reflects its focus on financing sectors that support inclusive economic growth and community development.
Forum Seeks More Investment in Water Infrastructure
The Africa WaterCredits Forum brings together financial institutions, water utilities, development partners and other stakeholders to explore ways of attracting commercial investment into water and sanitation projects across Africa.
The discussions focus on financing models that can help water service providers expand access, strengthen infrastructure and improve service delivery.
Co-op Bank's award highlights the growing role of specialised financial products in helping businesses and institutions invest in water infrastructure.
The bank's latest financing figures also demonstrate how lending partnerships can support efforts to improve access to essential services across Kenya.