Despite Taita Taveta County being among the sources of fresh water in the Coast region, it is ironic that the region has been facing water scarcity as residents in some parts struggle to obtain the precious commodity.
As a measure to curb the shortage, the county government has secured a Ksh70 million financing agreement with the Water Sector Trust Fund (WaterFund) to boost water supply to Voi sub-county’s Kaloleni residents.
WaterFund is a Kenyan State Corporation under the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation established under the Water Act, 2016, tasked to provide conditional and unconditional grants to Counties and to assist in financing the development of and management of water and sanitation services in marginalized and underserved areas.
Taita Taveta is among the other five counties of Baringo, Kitui, Kajiado, West Pokot, and Mandera that have also signed agreements for various water projects with the agency.
Governor Andrew Mwadime said the aim of signing the agreement was to ensure uninterrupted water supply across the county to curb shortages previously experienced as a result of prolonged drought.
“Our aim is to ensure water reaches all households in the county so that everyone can enjoy safe and clean water,” said Mwadime.
The governor added, “This partnership is a clear indication of the county’s commitment to work with governmental and non-governmental entities to ensure that our people have access to clean water, quality health services, agriculture and education services.”
The project is expected to bring about significant enhancements, including the building of a 500m³ tank at Kasarani to boost the storage capacity.
Reuben Kitololo, the County Chief Officer (CCO) for Water said that the initiative intends to expand water supply in rural and underserved areas, particularly those experiencing population growth.
He added that the county government will contribute an additional Ksh15 million payable by March 31, 2024, to boost the project.
On her part, Tavevo Water and Sewerage Company Managing Director Rose Mbiko, stated that the new distribution lines will be built to cover Kaloleni, Mnaoni, Kalambe, Kavingoni, Mlegwa, Mkamenyi, Manoni, Gimba and Wongoni.
WaterFund CEO Willis Ombai referred to the project as a ‘climate-proofed investment’ that will strengthen the area’s resilience against drought which is a consequence of climate change.
“Water is a basic need yet very scarce in some areas. However, this project will bring change as water will now be easily accessible to the people of Voi,” he said.
The execution of these projects, which are expected to end by August 2024, will provide the residents of Taita Taveta and the five other counties with enough supply of water to sustain them during dry seasons.
By Michael Oduor | oduormichael2021@gmail.com
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