To address the issue of water scarcity in the dry and semi-arid region, the government has started a Sh83 million water project in partnership with the European Union, Water Sector Trust Fund, and the West Pokot County administration.
Approximately 11,000 residents of the Kapenguria constituency are anticipated to profit from the water project, which is located in the villages of Mtembur and Kitelakapel in the Mnagei and Riwo wards, respectively, by receiving dependable, safe, and clean water.
Speaking at the project’s commissioning, Cabinet Secretary for Water and Sanitation Eric Mugaa said the project is an important step toward guaranteeing water accessibility in isolated and underserved areas.
According to Mugaa, the project was given about Sh50 million by the ministry through the water sector Trust Fund, while the county government also contributed Sh30 million.
In order to address relevant water concerns at the local level, he revealed that collaborative funding models highlighted the value of cooperation between the federal government and the devolved entities.
The CS emphasized that in addition to providing the population with a vital water supply, the Mtembur-Kitelakapel water project will assist more than 20 schools, nearby hospitals, and livestock needs.
He claimed that in order to reduce the distance households needed go to obtain water for residential use, the required infrastructure, such as water kiosks and tanks, has already been put in place along the supply line.
According to the CS, additional storage facilities to ensure efficient distribution, a compost filter unit for treatment, and intake works are crucial project components.
