Rwanda's Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC) has announced new measures to combat water theft, effective November 1, 2026. The utility will introduce fines of up to Rwf5 million (US$ 3,400) for water theft, with penalties varying depending on the type of property where water is stolen. The new measures replace regulations that have been in place since 2015. WASAC aims to strengthen the fight against water theft and encourage customers to comply with regulations governing water use.
Under the revised penalties, anyone caught stealing water for use in a residential house will be fined Rwf1 million (US$670). The fine rises to Rwf3 million for water theft at single-storey buildings under construction, livestock farms, and agricultural sites. The highest penalty, Rwf5 million, will apply to water theft at multi-storey residential estates and commercial or institutional facilities. These include commercial buildings, hotels, lodges, bars, restaurants, cinemas, garages, swimming pools, and public institutions such as schools and health facilities.
WASAC is also introducing financial incentives for people who provide information that helps identify water thieves. Informants whose reports lead to the identification of water theft involving residential houses will receive Rwf50,000. For cases involving the other categories of properties, the reward will be Rwf100,000. This move aims to encourage the public to report water theft and help WASAC curb water losses.
In addition to the fines and rewards, WASAC has announced a reconnection fee of Rwf20,000 for customers seeking to restore their water supply after it has been disconnected. The fee applies to cases involving disconnection over unpaid water bills, water theft, or other reasons. The utility urged customers to pay their water bills on time and avoid illegal water connections and other forms of theft.
The new measures are part of WASAC's efforts to promote responsible use of water resources and curb water losses. The utility has visited 19 times, with 19 visits recorded today. The announcement was made on October 26, 2026, by KT Press Staff Writer.
The penalties and rewards are part of a broader strategy to strengthen the fight against water theft in Rwanda. The country has been working to improve its water management systems and promote efficient use of water resources. The new measures take effect on November 1, 2026.
Rwanda's efforts to improve its water management systems are crucial for the country's development. The new measures introduced by WASAC aim to promote responsible use of water resources and curb water losses. Key points include:
Key points
- Fines for water theft will range from Rwf1 million to Rwf5 million.
- Informants can receive rewards of up to Rwf100,000 for reporting water theft.
- A reconnection fee of Rwf20,000 will be charged for customers seeking to restore their water supply.
