Kathozweni: Over 6,500 residents of Mavindini Ward will benefit from improved access to safe and reliable water following the commissioning of the Athi-Mavindini Water Project in Kathozweni Sub-County by Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr.
According to Kenya News Agency, the water project will be connected to three institutions of learning and two markets. It includes a 100-cubic-metre concrete intake sump, a solar-powered pumping system, more than 11 kilometers of rising main, and 7.5 kilometers of distribution lines. Governor Mutula stated that three institutions have been connected to the water supply, in addition to two markets and three water kiosks.
The project also features a four-kilometer irrigation pipeline with 40 tees to support agricultural activities in the area. Further components include a water treatment plant and solar-powered pumping system at Miangeni, a 150-cubic-metre masonry storage tank at Ilumani, and various security and sanitation facilities such as CCTV cameras and security lighting.
The County Government of Makueni, in collaboration with Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLOCA), aims to enhance the Athi water supply system to enable the distribution of 18 to 20 cubic meters of water per hour from the Athi River. The treated water at Miangeni is processed at a rate of 15 cubic meters per hour before being conveyed to the Ilumani storage tank for distribution.
The investment has significantly improved water security in Athi-Mavindini and decreased residents’ dependence on untreated river water, also reducing their exposure to crocodile attacks at the Athi River. Governor Mutula urged residents to protect the water project from vandalism.
During the tour, Governor Mutula also commissioned an Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) classroom at Methouvini Primary and inspected Muusini Dispensary. He was accompanied by Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili, Makueni County Assembly Speaker Douglas Mbilu, Clerk Kevin Mutuku, County Executive Committee Member for Health Joyce Mutua, and her counterparts for Devolution, Education, and Gender Nicolas Nzioka, Japhet Mang’oka, and Eng. Sabastian Kyoni, as well as several MCAs.
