Taita taveta: Thousands of residents of Taita Taveta County are set to benefit from improved access to clean and reliable water following the launch of a Sh400 million Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project (KOSAP). The project, which will solarize 19 boreholes across the county, has officially been handed over to the contractor, marking the start of implementation of one of the region’s most ambitious water access initiatives.
According to Kenya News Agency, speaking during the handover, Governor Andrew Mwadime stated that the project will address chronic water shortages while significantly reducing the cost of pumping water through the adoption of solar energy. Governor Mwadime emphasized the project’s role in ensuring that communities gain access to clean, affordable, and reliable water for both domestic use and irrigation.
The initiative is being implemented by the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) and will include the installation of solar photovoltaic systems, submersible pumps, elevated steel water tanks, and protective infrastructure. County Secretary Friday Mwafuga described the project, scheduled for completion before August this year, as a long-overdue intervention. Mwafuga highlighted the potential of the project to unlock water resources in Taita Taveta and ease the burden on residents.
Chief County Officer for Energy, Rinah Mwanake, attributed the breakthrough to sustained engagement between the county and the national government under President William Ruto. Mwanake noted the governor’s consistent efforts in advocating for the project, which the national government has supported. She described the integration of renewable energy into the water supply as a significant advancement.
County Executive Committee Member for Water, Sanitation, and Natural Resources, Granton Mwandawiro, remarked on the importance of partnerships like KOSAP in accelerating development. Mwandawiro pointed out that water is central to economic growth, public health, and food security, and this project strengthens that foundation.
Residents welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism about the potential to ease long-standing water challenges. Paul Nasiri, a resident of Bura Ndogo, expressed gratitude for the consistent water supply that solar energy would provide. In Taveta, Mzee Ngao highlighted the benefits of increased storage capacity in stabilizing supply. At Njukini Primary School, Headteacher Godfrey Ochieng’ anticipated improvements in learning conditions as the project would reduce waterborne diseases among pupils.
The project is expected to enhance irrigation, boost agricultural productivity, and stimulate growth in local urban centres while also reviving stalled borehole schemes across the county.
