The North Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency is set to launch five major water projects worth over Sh120 billion in Elgeyo Marakwet, Turkana, West Pokot, and Uasin Gishu counties.
Board chairman John Lonyangapuo announced that the agency is also seeking additional funding from the African Development Bank to ensure the successful completion of the projects. He emphasized the agency’s commitment to working closely with county governments and development partners to initiate the projects within the next five years.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that residents in these counties have access to reliable and sustainable water and sanitation services. Our strategic plan for 2023-2028, developed under the guidance of our board of directors and the Ministry of Water, will serve as the foundation for all our initiatives,” Lonyangapuo stated.
One of the major initiatives is the Moi’s Bridge Matunda Water and Sewage Project in Uasin Gishu County, which will cost Sh1.9 billion. The demand for clean water in the region has surged, particularly after Eldoret’s elevation to city status, underscoring the importance of completing the projects.
Lonyangapuo also noted that the stalled Kipkaren Water Project will be completed by a new contractor before the end of the year, with a budget exceeding Sh2 billion.
In Elgeyo Marakwet County, construction of the Sabor-Iten Water Supply Project is currently underway. Once completed, it will cater to both irrigation and domestic water needs in the region.
The agency is also advancing the Lodwar Town Water Supply Project in Turkana County. Lonyangapuo, the former governor of Turkana, shared that the agency is designing an alternative water source from the River Turkana to supplement the existing groundwater supply for Lodwar town.
“We are also planning to develop a comprehensive sewerage system for Lodwar, with anticipated support from the government and development partners. These projects are intended to provide long-term solutions for the region’s water and sanitation challenges,” he added.