Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has launched two water projects in Lunga Lunga subcounty to address growing scarcity affecting rural communities.
Achani launched the construction of a 21,000 cubic metre Rophe Ropheni water pan and 3.5-kilometre Dhuho Ra Mawe water pipeline extension projects in Mwereni ward, Lunga Lunga sub-county.
Upon completion, the water pan will boast a storage capacity of at least 21,000 cubic metres, directly benefiting over 800 households in the area.
The coastal county’s main sources of water are boreholes, underground springs, dams, water pans and rock catchments.
The rural water facilities comprise solar-powered borehole systems, water treatment plants, elevated storage tanks, and an extensive network for transmission and distribution.
Achani says the devolved government is supporting several water projects in arid and semi-arid zones of the coastal county, including borehole installations in various locations, demonstrating a commitment to providing clean water and improving access to sanitation and hygiene.
“The water project initiatives are part of broader efforts to tackle water scarcity and improve access to clean water in rural communities across our county,” she said, adding that the county’s commitment to long-term solutions ensures safe and sustainable access to water.
The much-anticipated Phase III of the water project marks a significant milestone in the county’s ongoing efforts to improve water accessibility in rural communities.
The extension will run from the Dzuho Ra Mawe water pan to Mwereni trading centre, Mwereni Primary School, the local health centre and adjacent households.
Achani says the rural water schemes are part of her administration’s commitment to also improve healthcare and sanitation in rural and small-town communities.
She said the Dzuho Ra Mawe extension is part of a broader strategic effort to enhance water coverage and ensure resilience against drought and water scarcity.
She added that the Rophe Ropheni water pan project is a strategic water infrastructure development aimed at improving water availability for domestic use, livestock, and small-scale irrigation.
Key components of the project include excavation and expansion, enlarging the existing water pan to increase its storage capacity, desilting, and clearing accumulated silt to restore its full functionality.
Other scopes of work include the construction of a concrete spillway to ensure safe overflow and prevent erosion during the rainy season and fencing, securing the facility with concrete posts and chain-link to prevent vandalism and encroachment.
The infrastructure will feature four water points, one water kiosk, and elevated water tanks to ensure a consistent and reliable supply.
She said with the launch of this new phase, thousands of residents in Mwereni Ward will benefit from clean and accessible water improving livelihoods, school attendance, and overall community health and sanitation.
“Water is life and bringing it closer to the people is not just a development goal; it’s a promise we are determined to fulfil. This project is a testament to our partnership with development partners like the Tenda Pamoja Foundation, and together, we are transforming lives,” said Achani.
The governor said so far, the Kwale county government has constructed over 40 water dams in dry parts of Kinango and Lunga Lunga sub-counties in addition to drilling more than 40 solar-powered boreholes in Msambweni and Matuga sub-counties.
Achani, who was accompanied by County Executive Committee Members Hemed Mwabudzo (Water) and Saumu Beja (Environment), stated that her administration will continue to improve the water infrastructure in the county to ensure residents have access to clean water for domestic use and agriculture.
She appealed to residents to take ownership of the new water projects noting that clean water not only prevents disease outbreaks but also enhances school attendance among children and reduces the risk of sexual abuse often faced by women and girls in search of the precious commodity.
Achani said not only will the lives of women get easier due to easy water access at the comfort of their homes due to piped water supply but also benefits like reduction of diseases like cholera and typhoid caused by dirty water among families would be realised.
“Kwale county is committed to expanding access to clean and safe water. These projects are just part of our broader plan to ensure every household in Kwale has a reliable water supply,” said Achani, adding that the projects include rehabilitating existing infrastructure and constructing new water supply systems.
Dago Masudi Chairman Tenda Pamoja Foundation in Kwale, expressed his gratitude for the collaboration with the Kwale county government and reiterated the foundation’s commitment to inclusive community development.
“Our mission is to walk together with the communities, ensuring no one is left behind in the journey toward dignity and sustainability. Access to clean water is a basic human right, and we are honoured to support the people of Mwereni in this transformative project,” said Masudi.
Tenda Pamoja Foundation is a non-profit organisation working to promote sustainable development by investing in community-based projects that address access to water, education, health, and economic empowerment.
He said the name Tenda Pamoja means “Let’s Act Together” in Swahili, reflecting the foundation’s core belief in collective action and grassroots partnerships.
Local resident Maisha Tero expressed joy and relief at the project’s launch.
“We have waited for this moment for a long time. Fetching water has been a daily struggle, especially for women and children. This project gives us hope and dignity,” said Tero.
Another resident, Mama Eunice Medza, linked the water crisis in rural areas to extreme weather conditions, which led to the drying up of streams and wells, leaving many residents struggling for access to clean drinking water.
She said as climate variability continues to threaten traditional water sources, projects like the Rophe Ropheni water pan offer a vital lifeline for rural communities.
Medza says the successful implementation of the project will not only improve living standards but also contribute to food security and economic empowerment in Mwereni Ward and beyond.
By Hussein Abdullahi
