Over 6,500 residents of Mavindini Ward will benefit from improved access to safe and reliable water following the commissioning of the Athi-Mavindini Water Project in Kathozweni Sub-County by Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr.
While commissioning the water project, Mutula disclosed that the water will be connected to three institutions of learning and two markets.
Also, the project comprises a 100-cubic- metre concrete intake sump, a solar-powered pumping system, more than 11 kilometres of rising main and 7.5 km of distribution lines.
“Three institutions have been connected to the water supply; two markets and three water kiosks have also been served,” said Mutula.
“The project further includes a four-kilometre irrigation pipeline with 40 tees that will support agricultural activities in the area,” he added.
Also, the project will have a water treatment plant and solar-powered pumping system at Miangeni, a 150-cubic-metre masonry storage tank at Ilumani, security facilities, sanitation amenities, CCTV cameras and security lighting.
The County Government of Makueni, working in partnership with Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLOCA), will enhance the Athi water supply system to enable distribution of between 18 and 20 cubic metres of water per hour from the Athi River.
The water is treated at Miangeni at the rate of 15 cubic metres per hour before being conveyed to the Ilumani storage tank for distribution.
The investment has substantially improved water security in Athi-Mavindini and reduced residents’ dependence on untreated river water, besides reducing exposure of the residents to crocodile attacks at the Athi River.
The governor urged the residents to protect the water project against vandalism.
During the tour, Mutula also commissioned an Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) classroom at Methouvini Primary and inspected Muusini Dispensary.
The governor was accompanied by the Deputy Governor (DG) Lucy Mulili, Makueni County Assembly Speaker Douglas Mbilu, Clerk Kevin Mutuku, County Executive Committee Member for Health Joyce Mutua and her counterparts for Devolution, Education and Gender Nicolas Nzioka, Japhet Mang’oka and Eng. Sabastian Kyoni, respectively, and several MCAs.
By Patrick Nyakundi
