Residents of the Kiamuguongo area, Ndia constituency, Kirinyaga County, are set to enjoy improved access to clean and reliable water following the near completion of the Kiamuguongo water project.
The development initiative, funded by the national government and implemented in close collaboration with the county government, is expected to be completed and officially handed over to the community within the next two weeks.
During an inspection visit to the project site, accompanied by engineers from Tana Water Services, Ndia Member of Parliament George Kariuki, who is also the Chair of the National Assembly Committee on Roads and Infrastructure, expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, saying the project is progressing as planned and is already delivering visible results.
Speaking during the inspection, Kariuki said the project demonstrates the importance of being in government and working within state structures to deliver tangible development to Kenyans.
He explained that water was prioritised after leaders listened to residents’ concerns about persistent shortages that had affected households for many years.
According to the MP, access to clean water is a basic necessity that directly impacts public health, education outcomes, and economic productivity.
Kariuki emphasised that the Kiamuguongo water project was made possible through strong collaboration between the national government, the county government, and implementing agencies such as Tana Water Services.
He said such partnerships are critical in addressing long-standing development challenges, adding that no single level of government could succeed in isolation.
Engineers from Tana Water Services confirmed that the main water supply line is already operational and capable of delivering sufficient water to the area.
Current efforts are focused on last-mile connectivity, a crucial phase that involves extending pipelines to individual households to ensure residents receive water directly in their homes.
Once completed, the project is expected to benefit approximately 1,000 households, significantly reducing the distance and time spent fetching water.
Members of the community welcomed the progress, describing the project as life-changing, noting that a reliable water supply would improve sanitation and hygiene, reduce waterborne diseases and ease the burden on women and children, who traditionally walk long distances in search of water.
Others said access to water would support small-scale farming and income-generating activities, ultimately improving livelihoods.
The MP urged residents to take collective responsibility in protecting the water infrastructure and using the resource sustainably once the project is handed over.
He stressed that development projects could only deliver long-term benefits if communities took ownership and worked closely with service providers.
In his capacity as Chair of the National Assembly Committee on Roads and Infrastructure, Kariuki also revealed that more development programmes, aimed at benefiting Kenyans, were ongoing across the county.
He said these included investments in road infrastructure, water and sanitation, and other essential public services designed to improve connectivity, spur economic growth, and enhance service delivery.
He reassured residents that the government remains committed to ensuring equitable development, noting that continued engagement with government and support for development-focused leadership is key to unlocking more resources for local communities.
By David Wandeto
