Retired KDF soldiers drill borehole to fight waterborne diseases in Siaya

The newly commissioned borehole in North Ugenya Ward by Veterans for Peace. [Courtesy]

Residents of North Ugenya in Siaya County have reason to smile after a newly drilled borehole was commissioned.

The borehole drilled by retired Kenya Defence Forces soldiers is part of a broader program being conducted under the umbrella of Veterans for Peace.

The Umberalla's Executive Director Nelson Sechere said the borehole will play a key role in addressing the issue of water shortage in the area.

Speaking during the official commissioning of the borehole on Saturday, Sechere said Siaya is among areas that have been documented as being prone to waterborne diseases due to unsafe water.

"A feasibility study conducted in Siaya County shows that the area faces an acute water shortage and this initiave will not only play a key role in addressing the shortage but also help eradicate waterborne diseases," said Sechere.

Sechere said under their plan, they intend to droll over 300 boreholes across the country in an effort to increase access to safe drinking water and addressing food insecurity.

He said Mombasa, Makueni, Narok, and Kisii counties are being prioritized under the plan.

His sentiments were affirmed by Siaya County Executive Committee Member for Water Prof Jaqueline Oduol who said the initiative is the right answer to the need for integrated programs to ensure residents have access to water.

"Water and sanitation programs are a top priority in Siaya County. Residents are suffering with many forced to walk long distances in search of this precious commodity," said Oduol.

Health CEC Rtd (Col) Dr Martin Odhiambo K'onyango said the county will collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure sufficient water supply for all.

He said the newly drilled borehole with capacity of 8,000 cubic liters of water per day is projected to serve 2,000 people daily.

Area Member of County Assembly Ben Adalla said all water projects should include purification processes to make the water safe for human consumption, livestock, and organic gardening.

In 2022, Siaya County experienced an acute water shortage, forcing residents to walk several kilometers in search of water.

The problem persists in some parts of Siaya, with residents still relying on ponds and rivers for water.