Mwatate: The national government, through Coast Water Works Development Agency (CWWDA), has commissioned two borehole projects in Mwatate Sub-County, Taita Taveta County, in a move aimed at ending persistent water shortages that have crippled livelihoods and education in the area. The Mwarondo Borehole in Sechu and the Mwazambo Borehole in Nyolo sub-location are expected to serve more than 15,000 residents who have relied on unsafe and distant water sources for decades.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mwatate Member of Parliament Peter Shake, who spoke during the commissioning, said the projects mark a major step towards ensuring access to clean and reliable water in rural areas. Shake expressed gratitude to President William Ruto and the CWWDA for funding the projects, noting that the Mwarondo borehole will benefit about 10,000 people, while Mwazambo will serve roughly 5,000 residents. He emphasized that these initiatives are crucial, especially given the unpredictable rainfall patterns affecting the region.
Shake urged the residents to safeguard the projects, highlighting the significant public funds invested. He further called for more partnerships between the national government and development agencies to provide water access to other deprived villages in Taita Taveta. Assistant County Commissioner Charles Wanyonyi commended the collaboration between national government officials and local leaders, stating that such unity is key to achieving development in Mwatate.
CWWDA Chairperson Dr. Daniel Mwaringa emphasized the importance of community involvement in managing the boreholes to ensure their sustainability. He announced the ongoing progress of other projects in the region, including the Lumi Water Project and the Mzima II project, which are at various stages of implementation. Mwaringa reiterated that while CWWDA develops such projects, it is up to the county government to ensure water distribution to households.
