NAKURU — In an effort to mitigate the long-standing water scarcity issue, the Nakuru County Government has announced plans to drill additional boreholes, aiming to enhance water accessibility for its residents. This initiative, spearheaded by the County Water Engineer, Paul Muhuhe, was unveiled during the commencement of the Murichu and Legetio water projects in Rongai Sub-county.
According to Kenya News Agency, the development is crucial for supporting various economic sectors, including agriculture, livestock farming, employment, health, education, manufacturing, and tourism. He highlighted that the projects would benefit over 800 households in the Visoi Ward, providing a much-needed solution to the water shortage that has plagued the area. The completion of these projects is expected to extend water services to public schools, a dispensary, shopping centers, and the Murichu market.
The area’s Member of County Assembly (MCA), Hellen Megek, emphasized the potential of Rongai Sub-county to combat food scarcity in the county, attributing this capability to the fertile soils and warm climate favorable for crop growth. Megek pointed out that the availability of water is pivotal for agriculture, the county’s economic backbone, promising enhanced productivity and crop diversification, which would, in turn, generate income for the residents.
Engineer Muhuhe also noted the significance of a steady water supply for livestock farming, a prevalent activity in Rongai. Adequate water ensures animal well-being, supports fodder and pasture growth, and is vital for maintaining public health, personal hygiene, and reducing waterborne diseases.
However, Julius Maina, an environmental activist in Rongai Sub-county, raised concerns over the potential environmental impact of excessive borehole drilling. Maina cautioned that without proper management, such activities could deplete groundwater resources, impacting both human and agricultural use. He highlighted the energy-intensive nature of borehole drilling, which typically relies on fossil fuels, leading to carbon emissions and environmental pollution.
Maina advocated for a more sustainable approach to water management, urging the county to focus on rainwater harvesting, forest protection, and the rehabilitation of polluted rivers as alternative strategies to enhance water availability.