Locals to get water from new project

Governor Wycliffe Oparanya (left) and Former Water Cabinet Secretary (now CS Labour) Simon Chelugui inspecting some of the ongoing water projects in Kakamega County. [File, Standard]

The county government will invest Sh56 million to enhance the capacity of Kambiri water project in Malava Sub-county, a county official has said.

In a statement released yesterday, Baraza Wangwe, the County Executive for Water, said the project is targeted to serve residents of Isukha East and North, West Kabras, Lower Lubao and Kambi ya Mwanza.

Also to benefit is West Kenya Sugar Company. Mr Wangwe revealed that all dairy farmers in Malava will be connected to the main reservoir tanks.

This is to help them access clean water for their animals and boost milk production. Most of the dairy farmers are affiliated to the new Malava Dairy Plant.

Wangwe noted that the county will spend Sh20 million to install a solar system that will provide energy for pumping water at the project.

“The county has invested heavily in solar panels. These panels are essential in providing energy to pump water at the Malava project," said Wangwe.

"The water is first pumped into reservoir tanks before it is channeled to households."

Wangwe added that the county has reverted to the solar system as an alternative source of power to avoid water shortages during power outages.

He said the move will go a long way in helping the county government cut down electricity costs.

In the 2019-20 financial year, Swaka Limela, the chairman of the environment, water and natural resources committee at the county assembly, said phase one of the multi-million water project will consume a total of Sh400 million.

Mr Limela said at the end of this financial year, the county plans to have 60 per cent of its population connected to clean and piped water, up from the 20 per cent recorded in the last financial year. [Nathan Ochunge]