Kutus: The County Government of Kirinyaga has earmarked Sh100 million for the expansion of the bulk water supply system, targeting over 30,000 households in Mwea Sub-County. The allocation is set to fund the initial phase of extending the Kutus-Kimbimbi bulk water main pipeline and feeder lines to deliver clean and safe domestic water to residents in Gathigiriri, Tebere, and Thiba wards.
According to Kenya News Agency, Governor Anne Waiguru emphasized the significance of this project in her administration’s mission to ensure reliable piped water for every household in the county. The expansion aims to reduce reliance on unsafe water sources and alleviate the burden on women and children who often travel long distances to fetch water.
During the State of the County Address at the Kirinyaga County Assembly, Waiguru highlighted the county’s progress in water infrastructure development, with Mwea receiving priority due to its lower coverage compared to other sub-counties. She noted that the expansion would occur in phases, with additional wards such as Mutithi and Wamumu set to benefit from the Kandongu-Mutithi bulk water pipeline extension. Other areas, including Nyangati, parts of Gathigiriri, and Tebere, will see improvements through the rehabilitation of the Nyamindi intake, while Kangai ward will gain from the extension of existing lines.
Governor Waiguru also mentioned the ongoing Mugaro Water Project for Murinduko ward residents, emphasizing the county’s commitment to smaller water projects across various wards. A total of 33 projects, including borehole drilling and water fittings installation, are underway at a cost of Sh44.8 million, expected to raise the county’s clean water access to 78 percent.
Since 2017, Waiguru’s administration has launched over 200 new water projects, increasing active projects from 170 to 370 and extending safe water access to more than 100,000 households. This investment has boosted household connections from 67,790 in 2017 to 139,596, improving hygiene, reducing waterborne diseases, and enhancing productivity.
The governor highlighted the positive impact of water access on small-scale irrigation, livestock rearing, construction, and the growth of cottage industries. Reliable water supply is also easing water resource conflicts and fostering community coexistence.
To sustain these improvements, Waiguru announced reforms at the Kirinyaga County Water and Sanitation Company (KICOWASCO) to curb water losses and enhance efficiency. Non-revenue water has been reduced from 59 percent to 47 percent, with a target of below 35 percent by next year. These reforms include improved monitoring mechanisms, installation of zonal meters, and DMA systems to minimize water loss and improve billing accuracy.
The governor acknowledged challenges like outdated infrastructure and illegal connections as contributors to past water loss issues. Her administration is committed to addressing these through modernization and stricter oversight.
Kirinyaga’s water strategy aims for universal access to safe water by 2030, aligning with national goals and Sustainable Development Goal 6. Waiguru reiterated her administration’s dedication to providing affordable and sustainable water supply as a cornerstone of the county’s economic transformation.
