Kakamega: The National Treasury and Economic Planning Cabinet Secretary (CS), John Mbadi, on Friday inspected the Savona Water Project at Shitao Community, which is under rehabilitation by the county government in collaboration with the national government. Mbadi said once complete, the project will provide about 80 per cent of the water required in Kakamega County.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mbadi highlighted that Kakamega requires about 8,000 cubic meters, which is 8 million litres of water, daily. The project, once complete, will provide around 6,500 cubic meters of water, which is 6.5 million litres, to the people of Kakamega. The CS noted that phase 1 and phase 2 of the project are nearing completion, with the project set to be completed and commissioned in March.
The CS emphasized the importance of devolution in ensuring development reaches every corner of the country. He expressed gratitude to the governor for reviving the project and assured that the national government would assist the County Government of Kakamega. Mbadi stated that every resident has a right to access clean water of sufficient quality and quantity, as enshrined in the constitution, Article 43.
The water project is part of the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) programme, with the national government allocating Sh292 million for Kakamega County to undertake climate mitigation measures. Mbadi assured that more funds would be allocated to FLLoCA in the county due to its large population.
The project will be powered by solar energy, and Mbadi noted that Kenya has made significant progress in developing green energy, positioning the country among the top in the world. He highlighted Kenya’s global respect in climate financing due to its steps towards achieving 100 per cent green energy.
Governor Fernandes Barasa mentioned that the county government has allocated Sh109 million towards FLLoCA projects, complementing the national government’s funding for environmental and climate mitigation measures. The Savona water project is a flagship project of FLLoCA, with Sh34 million allocated for its solarisation.
The governor also discussed other initiatives, such as the fencing of Kakamega Forest, the only existing tropical rainforest in East and Central Africa. He expressed optimism about transforming the lives of Kakamega County residents through collaboration between the national and county governments. Barasa welcomed further financing, indicating the county’s readiness to absorb even more than Sh500 million through FLLoCA for climate mitigation.
