Gov't rolls out Sh300m borehole projects in 23 arid counties

The government is investing Sh300 million to implement 31 borehole water projects in 23 counties classified as arid and semi-arid lands (ASAL), in a major effort to combat drought and water scarcity.

According to the Principal Secretary for the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development, Mr Kello Harsama, the projects aim to boost access to clean water for domestic use, livestock, and irrigation in regions that receive minimal rainfall, have poor soil conditions, and suffer chronic food insecurity.

“These 23 counties are characteristically dry, with limited rainfall and fragile ecosystems. They have long struggled with drought and food insecurity,” Mr Harsama said.

“Through the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), we are prioritizing water supply as a key pillar to improve livelihoods and build resilience in these vulnerable communities.”

The borehole projects are being undertaken through the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), which is implementing the initiative in some of the most drought-affected counties, including Turkana, Mandera, Marsabit, Wajir, West Pokot, Baringo, and Tana River.

“In these 23 ASAL counties, we currently have 31 ongoing water projects. The total cost for the initiative is Sh300 million,” said the PS.

“These are strategic interventions aimed at mitigating the harsh effects of drought and improving water access in areas that have experienced some of the worst impacts of climate change.”

He noted that between 2021 and 2022, many ASAL counties were hit by severe drought, leaving thousands of families in desperate need of water and food relief.

Mr Harsama made the remarks while commissioning the Kabati Water Project at Kiamathaga Ward in Kieni, Nyeri County, which is one of the completed borehole projects under the NDMA.

“Today, we have officially commissioned the Kabati Water Project, which will serve over 350 households with a consistent water supply for domestic use, livestock, and farming. It will also benefit four local primary schools and a nearby health center,” he said.

For residents like Damaris Kinaro, the project has brought immediate relief.

“Before this project, we women had to walk more than three kilometers to fetch water for our families. Lack of clean water meant exposing our families to diseases. This borehole has changed our lives,” Ms Kinaro said.

Stephen Waikwa, another resident, highlighted the economic transformation the project has initiated.

“Before the borehole became operational, poverty levels were high, and we struggled with hunger and lack of income. Now, with access to water, we’ve begun agribusiness ventures, and we are hopeful that this will help us eradicate poverty,” Mr Waikwa said.

Nyeri Deputy Governor Kinaniri Waroe, who was present at the event, lauded the collaboration between county and national governments in addressing water scarcity.

“As a county, we are also investing in boreholes at the grassroots level,” Mr Waroe said.

“We’ve partnered with the national government to ensure our communities have sustainable water access.”

Kieni MP Njoroge Wainaina noted that the Kabati project was conceptualized five years ago and is now a symbol of tangible progress under the current administration.

“I live just a few meters from this project. It is gratifying to see it finally commissioned after years of planning,” said the MP.

“This area has experienced recurring drought seasons, and this project is a testament to the Kenya Kwanza administration’s commitment under President William Ruto.”

Mr Harsama was accompanied during the commissioning by NDMA Chairman Shallow Yahya and Chief Executive Officer, Lt. Col. (Rtd) Hared Adan.

The government hopes that the success of these projects will serve as a model for future investments in drought mitigation and rural development, especially as the country grapples with the ongoing effects of climate change and increasing demand for water resources.