MAKUENI DELIVERS LASTING WATER SOLUTION TO OIL-AFFECTED THANGE COMMUNITY

Residents of Thange Ward are finally enjoying reliable access to clean and safe water following the completion of the Thange Integrated Water Project, a transformative initiative implemented by the Government of Makueni County through the Climate Change Unit under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) programme.

For years, families in the area endured acute water shortages, a crisis worsened by contamination of local water sources caused by oil spills.

Today, that burden has significantly eased.

The project has brought treated and solar powered water closer to residents’ homes through a modern water supply system comprising a 100,000-litre water sump and intake along Thange springs, extensive distribution lines and four strategically located water points.

Residents say the project has restored dignity and improved livelihoods, with households now accessing quality treated water just a stone’s throw from their homes. At least 730 households alongside institutions including Thange Primary and St. Peters Secondary Schools, whose learners and staff now have a dependable water supply.

Beyond water access, the initiative has strengthened household resilience through climate-smart livelihood support, where community members received conical gardens and beehives to enhance food production and generate additional income.