Samburu north: The national government has allocated Sh40 million to facilitate the drilling of boreholes to provide clean water access to over 10,000 residents and 100,000 livestock in Samburu North sub-county as the region braces for the dry season.

According to Kenya News Agency, the Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA) has spearheaded this initiative by drilling four strategically located boreholes as part of the national government's drought mitigation efforts. KVDA Managing Director Sammy Naporos, speaking at the commissioning of these water projects in Ntir village, Ndoto ward, emphasized the long-term benefits of these projects in addressing the acute water shortages faced by the local community.

Naporos detailed that each borehole, drilled and equipped at a cost of Sh10 million, will operate using solar power. The borehole at Loldepe is expected to yield 4,500 litres per hour, Soit ng'iro 2,500 litres, Kilepoi 1,500 litres, and Ntir 2,000 litres per hour. Collectively, these boreholes are anticipated to significantly alleviate water scarcity for the residents and reduce conflicts over resources.

The Managing Director highlighted KVDA's ongoing commitment to the national government's drought mitigation programme in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) counties, with plans to construct an additional five boreholes in Samburu County in the upcoming financial year.

Samburu North MP Eli Letipila praised KVDA and other regional development authorities for their collaborative efforts with local communities in identifying critical needs and delivering timely solutions. Letipila advocated for continued and adequate funding to regional agencies to ensure the sustained impact of such interventions in remote areas.

Local residents expressed their appreciation for the government's intervention, noting the positive effects on their livelihoods. Lorika Lesangurikuri, a community member, remarked on the benefits of the new water sources, including the ability to keep children in school and a reduction in intercommunal conflicts during the dry season.

The event saw the attendance of KVDA Chairman Mark Chesergon and other board members, underscoring the importance of the initiative in transforming the lives of Samburu North's residents.