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Author: Faith Mumo

KILOMBO DAM IRRIGATION WATER USERS ASSOCIATION OFFICIALS TRAINED FOR PROPER MANAGEMENT

Officials of the Kilombo Dam Irrigation Water Users Association (IWUA) have undergone a comprehensive 3-day training program to enhance their skills in the maintenance and management of the dam.

The officials are members of the community drawn from Kee and Kiima-Kiu/Kalanzoni wards elected by the residents to ensure proper management of the water resource.

The topics covered during the training, including Irrigation General Regulations 2021, Formation and Management of IWUA, statutory requirements, water structures management, and financial management, are critical for effective and sustainable dam operation. These topics cover legal, organizational, technical, and financial aspects, providing a well-rounded skill set.

The training was organized by the Department of Agriculture, Irrigation, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperative Development through National Agricultural Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP).

Kilombo Dam has a capacity of 315,000,000 Litres and is targeting to irrigate 15 hectares of land in the two wards. Some of the residents in the vicinity are already benefiting from irrigated farming, a crucial indicator of the practical impact of the dam on the local economy and livelihoods.

VALIDATION OF MAKUENI COUNTY ENERGY PLAN

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Public Works, Housing, and Energy, in collaboration with Strathmore University and WRI, organized a 3-day County Energy Plan Validation workshop at Kusyombunguo Hotel, Wote, from December 6th to 8th, 2023. Led by CECM Eng. Sebastian Kyoni and Energy Chief Officer Eng. Naomi Nthambi, the workshop focused on Energy Access to affordable, sustainable, and clean energy, productive use of energy, clean cooking technologies and sustainable bioenergy.

On the first day, the sensitization and validation of the County Energy Plan by the Members of the County Assembly.

The second day featured the presentation of the draft CEP to the cabinet under Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr, for their input and validation.

On the third day, Ward administrators were sensitized on the upcoming County Energy Plan and received a briefing on public engagement strategies and the promotion of green and renewable energy.

This workshop signifies a forward-looking approach to sustainable energy in Makueni County. The Makueni County Energy Plan is the 4th of its kind in Kenya, guided by the Integrated National Planning Framework.

DEPUTY GOVERNOR MARKS WORLD AIDS DAY, CAUTIONS OF UPSURGE OF CASES

Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili, joined by CEC Health Services Dr. Paul Musila, marked World AIDS Day at Kibwezi Township Primary in Kibwezi West Sub-county on Friday. 

Musila highlighted the county’s progress, noting a substantial drop in HIV/AIDS cases from 595 in 2022 to 323 this year. He reaffirmed the commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare, treatment, and preventive services.

Mulili emphasized the importance of health awareness campaigns in eliminating the AIDS scourge and urged the community to reject stigmatization, a major barrier to accessing counseling and testing services. 

She warned of rising HIV infections, teenage pregnancies, and gender-based violence, identifying them as triple threats to our communities. Mulili called on all health stakeholders to contribute to building a peaceful society.

500 FARMERS BENEFIT FROM FRUIT SEEDLINGS TO BOOST AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION AND PROFITABILITY

Over 500 farmers drawn from Tulimani Ward in Mbooni on Friday received 4000  fruit seedlings (2000 Hass avocado and 2000 Apple mangoes). 

This initiative by the County Government of Makueni through the Department of Agriculture, Irrigation, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperative Development is meant to enhance farmers’ income in 2 to 3 years when the seedlings are expected to mature. This will, in turn result in improved livelihoods.

The distribution exercise was graced by the Chief Officer Agriculture and Irrigation Daniel Ndolo, who was flanked by the area MCA and Majority Leader Hon. Kyalo Mumo, Sub County Administrator  Phyllis Kithome and a host of officers from various county departments and the National Government.