Author: Faith Mumo

Govenor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr commissions Kwa Mbila earth dam solar power project during his development tour of Kathonzweni Ward.

The 11,760 watts solar system replaces a diesel powered water pump which supplies water to 23 villages in Kathonzweni and Kitise/Kithuki wards. The project serves 13,500 beneficiaries.

During a working tour of Kathonzweni Ward on Friday, Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. commissioned several projects to improve access to clean water for domestic use and irrigation. These projects include a solar power system at the Kwa Mbila earth dam, Itumbule and Milute boreholes.

The governor also unveiled a backhoe that will facilitate surface run-off water harvesting through construction of water pans. Residents will benefit from this initiative at a cost of only Shs 2,500 per hour, which covers fuel expenses. 

In the Financial Year 2024/25, the Department of Water and Sanitation plans to connect atleast 1,000 households per ward to clean and safe water by implementing the last mile water infrastructure programme. 

This initiative will increase the proportion of rural households accessing piped water from 30% to 50% and urban households from 7,939 HHs in 2022 to 10,920 HHs in 2025.