Nairobi — Editors from the Kenya media on Thursday held open and frank discussions with key players in the water sector.

As was to be expected in such a forum, the discussion was dominated by questions about the cause and impact of the endemic water shortage, and its relationship to drought, environmental destruction and even climate change.

Various agencies were accused of failing to develop new sources despite increased demand; presiding over the destruction of existing sources; and mismanaging the storage and distribution system.

The assembled managers drawn from a wide array of institutions -- from the ministry headquarters down to the water and sanitation companies and the various development and regulatory bodies in between -- gave a good account of themselves.

They expounded in detail on what has been achieved over the last five years of reform, including establishment of various agencies, and freeing of water companies from the corrupt control of local authorities.

But two big questions remained: When will Kenyans be assured of clean, safe, drinkable water in their taps? When will Kenya be able to grow food crops throughout the year whether or not it rains?

The establishment of all those bureaucracies means nothing unless they can deliver on those very basic needs.