Kajiado:Residents of Singiraine in Kajiado West Sub County are experiencing a severe water shortage as the dry spell continues. The scarcity has forced them to travel around 45 kilometers to find water, often beginning their journey at 3am and risking encounters with wild animals.
According to Kenya News Agency, the situation has disrupted daily life, with Elizabeth Nkopo describing the water search as a daily struggle that interferes with household activities. The community relies on a solar-powered borehole serving eight villages, leading to long queues.
James Sororo, another resident, highlighted the financial burden, noting a 20-litre jerrycan now costs Sh150, which is insufficient for household and livestock needs. The crisis worsened after the Ministry of Mining closed Tata Chemicals Magadi, halting a key water supply.
The government plans to alleviate the situation through the Tanathi Water Works Development Agency (TWWDA), which will deliver emergency water supplies starting this week. Two water bowsers with a combined 80,000-liter capacity are currently serving schools and communities in the area.
TWWDA’s Chief Executive Officer, Sammy Naporos, mentioned ongoing efforts for sustainable solutions, including pipeline rehabilitations and the proposed construction of the Ewuaso Ng’iro multipurpose dam to provide a long-term water supply for Kajiado and neighboring regions.
