It’s a sigh of relief for more than 30,000 Laikipia North residents following the launch of a Sh63.5 million dam in Doldol that is expected to address water crises in pastoral areas.
The 100,000-cubic-meter-capacity dam funded by the Ewaso Ng’iro North Development Authority (ENNDA) will provide water in the four communities of Ilgwesi, Ilmokodo, Ilmumonyot, Indikiriri, and Samburu County.
Doldol Dam Chairman Solomon Ole Pusi revealed that the dam, which was initially constructed by locals in the 1950s, had silted, but with the major boost from the government, water shortages will be a thing of the past for both people and wild animals.
‘’We are glad about the work being done here. With the enlargement of the dam and desilting, we hope that water challenges will be addressed. It’s sad that, even after the rainy season, we are left with no water for our livestock,” said Ole Pusi, adding that during the drought season, they were forced to migrate to Mount Kenya forest in search of water for their livestock.
Area Member of Parliament Sarah Korere lauded the project, noting that pastoralists were severely affected by drought over the years and that water provision would be a game changer for the communities in her constituency.
According to ENNDA Director Corporate Services and Infrastructure Josiah Mulwa, the dam will be constructed within a period of six months, and it will be installed with a solar system for water pumping aimed at promoting green energy in the pastoral area.
“This is a water-scarce area. Women, livestock, and children trek long distances to access water commodities, which is a major challenge. Upon completion of this project, many households will benefit,” said Mulwa.
On his part, ENNDA Chairman Ahmed Duale said the construction of the dam would improve residents’ livelihoods and reiterated that the project will address the water shortage in the vast Laikipia North sub-county.
The chairman urged residents to support the project until its completion to ensure reliable water points for their domestic usage.
By Muturi Mwangi
