Residents of Kaloleni are celebrating following the successful rehabilitation of Kajongooni and Biningala mega boreholes in Kaloleni Sub-County that had stalled for over 10 years.
The rehabilitation effort, spearheaded by Islamic Relief in partnership with the Kilifi County Government, included the installation of solar panels and modern equipment, water tanks, construction of water kiosks, and livestock water troughs.
Additionally, the borehole areas were fenced to ensure security and long-term sustainability.
Now serving over 50,000 people in Kayafungo and Biningala areas, the boreholes were officially handed over to the community after extensive restoration efforts to address the region’s persistent water challenges.
The construction of water kiosks has enhanced water accessibility, catering to domestic and livestock needs, while the livestock water troughs are a major boost for local herders and farmers.
“We have had water problems for a long time. This project failed almost twelve years ago. We are thankful that this organization has restored it for us, and we can now access water,” said Anna Kazungu, a resident of Kayafungo village, during the handover ceremony for the Kajongooni borehole.
Her sentiments were echoed by her neighbour, Gabriel Katana, who witnessed the project’s inception and recalled how it had served the community effectively for many years before breaking down.
“This well was established in 1951 and was very helpful to the community. However, it was later covered by sand and could no longer provide water. Now, thanks to this organization, women can access water again, and everyone is happy,” she said.
At Biningala village, residents led by their village elder Kenga Katana expressed heartfelt gratitude to Islamic Relief for responding to their plight.
The elder recounted how residents had resorted to manually digging the well in a desperate attempt to access water, but the labour-intensive effort was unsustainable.
“We tried to dig the well ourselves, but it was too difficult. When Islamic Relief stepped in, they brought water back to Biningala. The borehole now also provides water to Bikidzaya Primary School. We are deeply thankful to Islamic Relief for coming to our aid,” he said.
Islamic Relief Field Coordinator for Kilifi County Ahmed Osman emphasized the organization’s dedication to restoring hope for vulnerable communities.
He noted that rehabilitating boreholes has been crucial in reviving livelihoods for people who had endured significant hardships following the breakdown of water projects.
The revival of the Kajongooni and Biningala boreholes symbolizes a renewed hope for Kaloleni, where access to clean water has been a long-standing challenge. With the availability of reliable water, the community members look forward to improved health, productivity, and livelihoods.
By Jackson Msanzu
