NGPU February 3, 2025

Nakuru County Expands Water Access with New Boreholes in Mosop Ward

Written by Jilopa K Ezra and James Munyua

Following the completion of borehole drilling and equipping at Kerma and the Roret office in Mosop Ward, at least 7,400 households in Kerma, Kirobon, Lord Egerton Castle, Ngata, Tulwet, Kamungei Tank, the underserved area of RVIST, and Arap Chumo Estate in Mosop Ward, Rongai Sub-County, will have access to clean and safe water for domestic use.

The project, implemented by the Nakuru Rural Water and Sanitation Company (NARUWASCO), aims to alleviate the burden of water access for residents who have long relied on expensive water vendors. It includes three elevated tanks with a total capacity of approximately 500,000 litres and a 20km pipeline network.

During a site visit to the Kerma borehole, where drilling has already begun, County Deputy Governor H.E. David Kones highlighted the project’s importance, stating that providing water to all Nakuru residents is a key priority for Governor Susan Kihika. He further noted that over 70 boreholes have been drilled across the county, increasing water coverage from 50 per cent to 70 per cent since Governor Kihika assumed office. Hon. Kones also flagged off a double-cabin pickup and five motorcycles to enhance NARUWASCO staff mobility.

Mosop Ward MCA Hon. Alex Langat alongside CECM for Water and Environment Dr Nelson Maara emphasized the project’s significance noting that residents have suffered greatly due to the lack of alternative water sources, often travelling long distances or purchasing water at high costs. This project is funded through the World Bank’s Conditional Liquidity Support Grant (CLSG 11 Project).

One of the beneficiaries, Mary Wambui, a resident of Ngata, expressed her joy, stating, “For years, we have struggled with water shortages, sometimes spending a significant portion of our income on buying water. This project is a great relief, as it will provide a reliable water supply close to our homes. We are grateful to Governor Susan Kihika and the county leadership for making this a reality.”

Beyond improving water access, the project is also creating employment opportunities for residents. The construction phase has already provided jobs to skilled and unskilled workers, including borehole drillers, pipeline technicians, and labourers. Once completed, the water distribution system will require operators, maintenance staff, and customer service representatives, further boosting local employment.

Also present were Chief Officers Margaret Kinyanjui (Water and Sanitation) and Gladys Kamuren (Gender and Social Services), NARUWASCO staff led by Managing Director Reuben Korir, and area residents.