Residents of Elburgon area in Molo Sub-County, Nakuru County, have a reason to smile after area Member of Parliament Francis Kimani Kuria launched a solarised water project expected to benefit more than 2,000 families.
The project, with a storage capacity of over 10,000 litres, is aimed at easing access to clean water for both domestic and small-scale farming use. Its commissioning comes at a critical time during the ongoing dry season, when many households struggle to secure reliable water supplies.
Speaking during the launch, Kuria said the project was fully funded by the Kuria Foundation and forms part of the ongoing Clean Water in Schools initiative. The programme prioritises improving water access in learning institutions to enable learners to concentrate on their studies instead of spending time fetching water.
“After close monitoring and evaluation in most schools by my office, we discovered that many learners waste valuable class time walking long distances either to fetch water for school use or to take home,” Kuria said.
He noted that the situation has not only affected academic performance but has also placed an unnecessary burden on children and parents living in surrounding communities.
“That is why we rolled out this initiative to ensure schools have water within their vicinity, saving learners and parents from unnecessary hardship,” the MP added.
Kuria urged residents to support the current government, saying it has demonstrated goodwill by prioritising development in previously underdeveloped areas.
“We, the people of Molo and Nakuru County at large, appreciate President Dr. William Ruto and his administration for ensuring that all counties receive a fair share of development,” he said.
The MP said improved access to water will enhance health, education and economic activities in the area, particularly for households engaged in small-scale farming and livestock keeping.
Area residents welcomed the project, describing it as timely and impactful. Speaking on behalf of the community, Benjamin Wachira and Diana Wanjaa Maina applauded the MP for prioritising a basic but essential service.
“I must thank MP Kimani Kuria for this project. We, the residents of Elburgon, have suffered for a long time. This water project will not only benefit the schools but also the wider community,” Wachira said.
Maina noted that water scarcity has had far-reaching social effects, including family tensions and school absenteeism.
“Some of the domestic violence cases witnessed in recent times were linked to water shortages, where women spent long hours looking for water. Children also suffered, as they had to miss classes during the dry season to help their families,” she said.
To ensure sustainability, Kuria urged residents to form a management committee that will oversee the operation and maintenance of the project for the benefit of the community.
By Absalom Namwalo
