Kwale: Governor Fatuma Achani has launched two water projects in Lunga Lunga subcounty to address growing scarcity affecting rural communities. Achani initiated the construction of a 21,000 cubic metre Rophe Ropheni water pan and a 3.5-kilometre Dhuho Ra Mawe water pipeline extension in Mwereni ward, Lunga Lunga sub-county.
According to Kenya News Agency, the water pan, upon completion, will have a storage capacity of 21,000 cubic metres, directly benefiting over 800 households. Kwale’s main water sources include boreholes, underground springs, dams, and rock catchments. The rural water facilities will feature solar-powered borehole systems, water treatment plants, elevated storage tanks, and an extensive transmission and distribution network.
Achani highlighted the devolved government’s support for several water projects in the county’s arid and semi-arid zones, including borehole installations in various locations. She emphasized the commitment to providing clean water and improving access to sanitation and hygiene. The initiatives are part of broader efforts to tackle water scarcity and improve access to clean water in rural communities across the county.
The Phase III 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 stated that these projects are also part of a strategic effort to enhance water coverage and ensure resilience against drought and water scarcity. The Rophe Ropheni water pan project aims to improve water availability for domestic use, livestock, and small-scale irrigation.
Key components of the project include excavation and expansion to increase storage capacity, desilting, and clearing accumulated silt. Other works include constructing a concrete spillway to ensure safe overflow and prevent erosion during rainy seasons and securing the facility with fencing to prevent vandalism and encroachment. The infrastructure will feature four water points, one water kiosk, and elevated water tanks for consistent supply.
Achani noted that the new phase will benefit thousands of residents in Mwereni Ward by providing clean and accessible water, improving livelihoods, school attendance, and overall community health. She emphasized the importance of water accessibility, stating that these projects are a partnership with development partners like the Tenda Pamoja Foundation, aimed at transforming lives.
The governor reported that the Kwale county government has constructed over 40 water dams and drilled more than 40 solar-powered boreholes in various sub-counties. Accompanied by County Executive Committee Members Hemed Mwabudzo and Saumu Beja, Achani promised continued improvement of water infrastructure to ensure residents have access to clean water for domestic use and agriculture.
She urged residents to take ownership of the new projects, noting the benefits of clean water in preventing disease outbreaks and enhancing school attendance and safety for women and girls. Achani added that these projects form part of a broader plan to ensure every household in Kwale has a reliable water supply.
Dago Masudi, Chairman of Tenda Pamoja Foundation, expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the Kwale county government and reiterated the foundation’s commitment to inclusive community development. He stated that access to clean water is a basic human right, and the foundation is honored to support the people of Mwereni.
Local resident Maisha Tero expressed joy and relief at the project’s launch, highlighting the struggle of fetching water, especially for women and children. Another resident, Mama Eunice Medza, linked the water crisis to extreme weather conditions and emphasized the importance of projects like the Rophe Ropheni water pan in providing a lifeline for rural communities.
Medza believes the project’s successful implementation will improve living standards and contribute to food security and economic empowerment in Mwereni Ward and beyond.
