The Coast Development Authority (CDA) has launched the construction of two solar-powered boreholes valued at Sh20 million in Machungwani and Wololo, Challa Ward, Taita-Taveta County.
The projects are expected to be completed within two months and will provide the much-needed relief to residents, who have been lacking access to clean water for long, leaving them vulnerable to waterborne diseases.
The Authority’s Ag. Managing Director, Dr Mwanasiti Bendera, said the boreholes will serve remote areas that are not connected to the national grid.
“We will also establish a water kiosk, where residents can fetch clean water for drinking and domestic use, and later extend the supply directly to households. We have prioritised Taita-Taveta County for water projects,” she said.
Taveta Member of Parliament John Bwire welcomed the initiative, noting that water scarcity has forced students and residents to walk for long distances in search of the precious commodity.
“Here at the border, it is easier to fetch water from Tanzania than from our side. I collaborated with CDA through the national assembly to allocate funds for these boreholes, ensuring residents have access to safe drinking water,” the MP explained.
In Machungwani, he added, residents often depend on river water, which exposes them to waterborne diseases during the rainy season.
“On average, the projects will benefit 1,000 people in Wololo and 1,500 in Machungwani. As MPs, we have deliberately chosen to work with CDA because we have seen the impact of its projects,” Bwire said, pledging to continue mobilising resources through Parliament.
He emphasised that they will collaborate with CDA to improve the livelihoods of the Coastal people, promising to mobilise funds through the national assembly.
CDA Board Chairman Mzee Mwinyi also announced that local youth will be given priority in employment opportunities arising from the project, ensuring the community benefits directly.
“It is important for community members to not only gain access to clean water but also benefit from jobs created by the project,” he said.
By Sadik Hassan
