Residents in Chekalini Ward, Lugari Sub-County have reasons to smile after the County Government commissioned Musembe Dam Water Supply which will benefit over 24,000 residents.
In his speech during the official opening of the dam, Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya said the Sh100 million project is fulfilment of his promise for water to all, water to doorstep, famously known as Amatsi Khumukuru
Oparanya said Musembe Water Supply can produce 100 meters cubed per hour and uses containerized Water Treatment Technology which is flexible to allow expansion based on population growth.
He said the water project can supply water to many institutions within Chekalini Ward through ongoing last mile connectivity.
According to him, the water scheme will be run by The Water Rural Company with close supervision from the Department of Water and Environment saying this will ensure sustainability in terms of operation.
Oparanya tasked Department of Water to immediately fast-track ongoing Last Mile Connectivity operations and have all residents in the area supplied with water.
The Governor however urged the locals to support the company by reporting any leakages or malpractices noticed during operation of water supply.
He further assured the entire Kakamega County residents that Amatsi Khumukuru program shall be attained and sustained across the county. “I affirm to Kakamega residents that indeed Amatsi Khumukuru program shall be realized and sustained across the county,” the Governor assured.
Oparanya asked staff in the County Water Companies to ensure quality water and timely billing and revenue collection.
Oparanya thanked Kenya Devolution Support Program and the Ministry of Devolution for funding Musembe Dam Water Supply Project and four other projects in the county namely, Lwakhupa Water Project in Navakholo, Nandamanya Water Project in Shinyalu, Kusavali Water Project in Malava and Butwehe Project in Ikolomani.
He said of Sh340 million grant received from KDSP, Sh262 million was spent on development of water projects, while remaining Sh78 million will be spent this financial year to address last mile connectivity which is on course.
The Governor further directed the Department of Water and Environment to solarize Musembe Water Project as a way to minimize the operation and maintenance costs.
By Geoffrey Satia
