The Murang'a County Government, led by Governor Irungu Kang'ata, is working on a strategy to increase water coverage by 60 per cent. This initiative, started two years ago, aims to provide a reliable supply of clean water for domestic use. The governor stated that his administration has been collaborating with water companies to achieve this goal by the end of 2027. Water is a top priority, especially in areas where households rely on distant or unreliable water sources.

Governor Kang'ata recently commissioned the Mugira Dam Water Project in Makuyu. The project has already connected over 450 households in Makuyu and Kambiti wards to clean piped water through the Murang'a South Water and Sanitation Company (MUSWASCO). The county government has allocated resources for water projects across its 35 wards, including borehole drilling and pipeline extensions to underserved areas. This effort seeks to expand water infrastructure and improve access to safe water across the county.

The Mugira Dam Water Project has been solarised, reducing reliance on electricity and lowering operational costs associated with pumping and distributing water. MUSWASCO Managing Director John Macharia reported that they have increased water production from the intakes to residents' satisfaction, especially in Kenol Municipality and Kahumbu ward. The utility provider has connected many households with water following increased abstractions of the commodity from rivers.

Governor Kang'ata emphasized that access to clean and reliable water is essential to improving the quality of life of the residents. His administration prioritizes the residents' interests before implementing development programs to address existing challenges. The county government will continue investing in water infrastructure and extending connections to ensure more households benefit from the improved water supply.

The project in Makuyu and Kambiti wards is part of the county government's efforts to address water scarcity. Many households in these areas have long relied on distant or unreliable water sources. With the commissioning of the Mugira Dam Water Project, residents can now access clean piped water, supporting domestic needs, agriculture, livestock keeping, and other economic activities.

MUSWASCO has made significant progress in connecting households to clean water. The managing director, John Macharia, highlighted that the increased water production has satisfied residents, particularly in areas with high demand. The solarisation of the project has also reduced operational costs, making it a sustainable solution for the county.

The Murang'a County Government's initiative to increase water coverage by 60 per cent is a step towards ensuring a reliable supply of clean water for its residents. With the completion of projects like the Mugira Dam Water Project and ongoing investments in water infrastructure, the county aims to improve the quality of life for its residents and support economic activities.

Key points

  • The Murang'a County Government aims to increase water coverage by 60 per cent by the end of 2027.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.