MUKOGODO – In a significant move to improve water access, more than 1,000 residents of Mukogodo East in Laikipia North Sub County are set to benefit from a Sh15.6 million water project.
According to Kenya News Agency, which commissioned the project, the initiative aims to alleviate the challenges faced by the community, especially women who previously trekked more than 10 kilometers in search of water.
During the launch of the Luruk water project on Thursday, Laikipia North Member of Parliament Sarah Korere highlighted the project’s potential to reduce human-wildlife conflict, which has been prevalent during periods of drought. “The project not only addresses the immediate need for water but also allows women to pursue other activities, such as kitchen garden farming, and ensures children have more time for education,” Korere stated.
ENNDA project manager Josiah Mulwa detailed the project’s components, including the construction of a 350 meters deep borehole and the installation of a solar-powered water pumping system. This initiative not only promotes green energy but also marks a critical step towards sustainability in the pastoral area. “This initiative is expected to significantly ease the water scarcity challenge, benefiting both the community and over 15,000 livestock and wild animals,” Mulwa said.
Jane Putunoi, a member of the ENNDA Board of Directors, emphasized the project’s substantial impact on the pastoral community, highlighting its role in improving the quality of life for the residents.
Local residents, including Francisca Kirwa and Dickson Mbui, expressed their gratitude for the project, noting the profound difference it will make in their daily lives. Kirwa, in particular, shared the relief felt by women in the community, who are often most affected by water scarcity. “We are very thankful for this project. It has alleviated our long-term challenge of accessing clean water for domestic use, especially during prolonged dry spells,” Kirwa remarked.
With the commissioning of the Luruk water project, the movement of residents in search of water and pasture is anticipated to become a relic of the past, marking a new era of water availability and security in Mukogodo.