Written by James Munyua
Nakuru County is set to receive over 6 million litres of water daily from the Chemususu Dam in Baringo County once the Chemususu Water Supply Scheme is fully operational.
The County intends to connect over 5,000 households and social institutions in Rongai Sub-County to clean, safe water for domestic use in this water-scarce area, which is part of the semi-arid region.
Another area that will benefit from this project is the Kiamunyi area, Kabarak University and its environs, which will have a great dedicated storage reservoir at Kabarak to serve the institution and the surrounding community.
Speaking while he joined the Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Eng. During the official commissioning of the bulk water transfer from the Chemususu Dam Water Supply Project in Baringo to Nakuru County, Deputy Governor H.E. David Kones said the County has made a significant investment in last-mile connectivity.
Part of these works involves extending pipelines from the 1,500 cubic metres Emkwen storage tank in Soin Ward, toward Kipsyenan AIC Church, Lelechwet Village, Koisamo Junction, Kipsyenan Dispensary, Molkelwet Village, and Kinoiyo.
“These extensions will serve over 2,000 residents in the immediate phase, significantly reducing walking distances and supporting local schools and healthcare facilities in the area,” Deputy Governor Kones said.
On his part, CS Eng. Eric Mugaa emphasised the urgency of meeting the demands of a rapidly urbanising Nakuru.
“Water is the engine of our economy and the foundation of dignity for our people. Today, we are moving a lifeline from Chemususu to the doorsteps of Nakuru residents. This is about ensuring that every drop from this multi-billion shilling investment serves the purpose it was intended for,” the Cs stated.
While celebrating the Chemususu milestone, Deputy Governor Kones appealed to the National Government to prioritise the revival and completion of the Itare Dam Project.
“With Nakuru County’s daily water demand currently exceeding 110,000 cubic meters, the Itare Dam remains the most viable long-term solution for the county’s holistic needs.” Hon Kones noted.
Before the official commissioning, Nakuru Rural Water and Sanitation Company (NARUWASCO) and Chemususu Water and Sanitation Company (CHEWASCO) had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalising the service provision arrangements between the two Water Service Providers.
The MoU strengthens coordinated water service delivery across county boundaries and paves the way for seamless bulk water transmission and distribution.
Also present were Principal Secretary for Water and Sanitation Julius Korir, CPA Douglas Murei, CEO,
Central Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency (CRVWWDA), Dr Nelson Maara, CECM, Water Environment Energy and Natural Resources, among other leaders.