Residents of Kesses sub-county in Uasin Gishu are set to benefit from clean piped water after the North Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency (NRVWWDA) handed over the Sh45.4 million Moi University water supply project site to the contractor, Infinity Pool Limited, to begin construction.
Speaking during the site handover ceremony at Chebaiywo Shopping Centre, NRVWWDA Chief Executive Officer Edwin Rotich said the project, which has been in the pipeline since 2023, is now set to move to full implementation.
Rotich noted that the project’s initial allocation of Sh20 million was adjusted upwards to Sh45 million following concerted lobbying and budget realignment, enabling a more expansive design and wider coverage.
“We are now ready to roll out actual works on the ground. The design has been completed, the contractor is on site and funds have been secured to begin the construction work,” said Rotich.
The project will include the construction of a main storage tank, development of an intake system, installation of solar-powered pumping equipment and a distribution network serving Moi University and neighboring communities.
Rotich expressed gratitude to the landowner for donating the site for the water tank and to residents who allowed pipes to pass through their farms, noting that their cooperation has significantly reduced the project costs.
“Because the land was provided freely, the available funds will go directly into building key infrastructure rather than land compensation,” he said.
He added that the initiative aligns with the government’s agenda to improve water access in rural and institutional areas and will greatly alleviate the perennial water shortages affecting Moi University, Chebaiywo and nearby settlements.
Rotich further revealed that other ongoing water initiatives in Kesses sub-county include the Tulwet Water Project and the Tarakwa Dam Project, with plans underway to secure additional funding in the upcoming supplementary budget to expand regional coverage.
He urged the contractor to employ local residents during implementation, noting that job opportunities will be advertised in local newspapers, with priority given to qualified individuals from the area.
“This is a community-driven project, and the people of Kesses will be the first to benefit both through improved water access and employment,” he emphasized.
Kesses Member of Parliament, CPA Julius Rutto lauded NRVWWDA for its commitment and described the project as a major step towards ensuring residents and institutions access clean, reliable and sustainable water.“This project is a game-changer for Kesses. It represents our shared vision of transforming lives through sustainable development,” he said.
NRVWWDA General Manager for Infrastructure Development, Eng. Jimmy Kemboi, said the project aims to double water production capacity in Kesses from 600 to 1,200 cubic meters per day under its first phase.
“The existing treatment plant currently produces about 600 cubic meters per day, which has not been enough to meet demand. Through this project, we are expanding the system to deliver 1,200 cubic meters daily, significantly improving supply reliability and reducing rationing,” he said.
Kemboi noted that expansion works will begin at Kesses Dam, where the current community-operated plant is located. The Sh45 million project will focus on increasing production efficiency and extending coverage to more households. He appealed for full community cooperation during implementation.
Infinity Pool Limited Director, Zephania Kurgat reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering quality work within the stipulated time frame.
“We will implement the project in full compliance with approved specifications and ensure it is completed on time. We also plan to source both technical and casual labour locally and procure materials from within the area to support the community,” Kurgat assured.
Once completed, the Moi University water supply project will deliver safe and reliable water to Moi University, Talai, Chebaiywo, Tulwo, Kiburwo and St. John, featuring a modern treatment facility, solar pumping system, elevated steel tank, and over 22 kilometres of distribution pipelines.
The project is expected to transform lives by enhancing water security, promoting hygiene and stimulating socio-economic growth across Kesses and its environs.
By Fredrick Maritim
