Wajir Deputy Governor Ahmed Muhumed on Tuesday commissioned Phase I of the Griftu Water Supply Project, a major initiative aimed at enhancing water access and resilience in the region.
The project, implemented in partnership with the UNDP Regional Resilience Hub for Africa and UNICEF Kenya, was officially handed over by Dr. Zeynu Ummer of UNDP and Shaheen Nilofer, UNICEF Kenya Representative.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Deputy Governor Muhumed lauded the development partners for their support, noting that the project marks a significant milestone in the county’s efforts to improve water security.
“I would like to thank our partners for this remarkable initiative. Water is life, and this project represents a crucial step toward building a more resilient, self-reliant, and prosperous future for the people of Wajir,” said Muhumed.
He said the water supply project is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen community resilience through sustainable water solutions, especially in drought-prone areas.
According to officials, Phase I of the project features a 454-meter-deep solar-powered borehole with a 31 KVA backup generator, two elevated water tanks with a capacity of 60,000 litres each, and a range of auxiliary infrastructure.
These include a secure perimeter fence, water troughs for both residents and livestock, a power control house, guard house, sanitation units, a 16-tap water kiosk, two water trucking points, and a three-kilometer pipeline extension.
The Deputy Governor reaffirmed the County Government’s commitment to working with stakeholders to ensure sustainable water access and improved livelihoods for the people of Wajir.
The project is set to benefit over 3,000 residents and more than 120,000 livestock in Griftu and surrounding areas, significantly boosting access to clean water and enhancing the region’s resilience to climate shocks.
By Hamdi Buthul